Opportunity knocks and Cleere collects

Twenty year old Dylan Cleere partnered his first winner today at Killarney, steering Shiroccoville (100/30jf) to land the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle (div I) for trainer Emmet Mullins.

Having her first start for Mullins, the six year old mare had been supported this morning from 3/1 to 5/4 but eased to 100/30 joint-favouritism at the off.

In the race Shiroccoville, in the colours of Paul Byrne, chased the leaders, led at the second last and stayed on well to beat Trouble And Strife by three lengths.

Trainer Mullins later commented “it is brilliant for Dylan who has been with me since he left school and is a great part of the yard at home. There is never an issue with Dylan, it is great to be able to give him this opportunity and he took it with both hands.”

He added “the mare was in off 81, a basement mark, and did it nicely. We put a first-time hood on her as she can be keen and it obviously helped. Hopefully there could be more to come from her.”

Cleere also reported “I'm absolutely delighted. I'm from Gowran, turned 20 last week and went professional a month ago. I've been with Emmet four years and he has treated me really well. This is brilliant.”