Owennacurra wins on chase debut at 11-y-o

Owennacurra Milan made a winning start over fences with a convincing success in the Slievenamon Beginners Chase at Clonmel.

Andrew Lynch had the 7/2 shot to the fore and disputing throughout in the two-mile contest.

He moved on from Peter From Paris turning for home and kept on well in the closing stages for a five-and-a-half length win, as Cairde Aris came through to claim the runner-up spot.

The Mary Louise Hallahan-trained gelding was a three-time winner over hurdles and chased home Nickname Exit at Navan on his most recent start last month.

"It is unorthodox for an 11 year old to have his first run over fences but he seemed to jump well and Andrew gave him a great ride,” said Hallahan.

"Where he goes next depends on what handicap mark he gets and he'll either go for a handicap or winners' chase but he won't run if the ground dries up."

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)