O'Connell makes Bright start at local Fairyhouse track

Locally based trainer Claire O'Connell sent out Born Bright to win the opening Adare Manor Opportunity Mares Maiden Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Prominent throughout under Paddy O'Brien, the five-year-old moved third entering the straight, as long time leader Ad Caelum led the field.

Pushed along to close in second after two out, the 16/1 chance led between the final two flights, keeping on well to win by three-and-a-half lengths. Lady Nightingale stayed on late from out of the chasing pack to take second, with Ad Caelum back in third.

“I'm just so appreciative for these types of races for small trainers. I knew there was a bit of negative press about them but for the likes of me it really gives us a chance not to be competing with the Man Utds and Man Citys of this world when it comes to racing,” said Claire O'Connell.

“She won a point-to-point and my son got to ride her in a few bumpers but she wants good ground and it went soft in Sligo and Listowel.

“This was a race that really suited and it was local. She'll run away over hurdles now.

“She's home-bred, her sister Born Famous won six in Scotland and got black-type and Born Braver won two for Gavin Cromwell. She's the third one and we've a few more fillies at home so we're delighted.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson.