Playtime off the mark for Fitzgerald

Playtime Ben opened his account in convincing fashion when taking the Munster Opportunity Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel.

Rob Jones tracked the leaders in the two-and-a-half mile contest before hitting the front at the fourth last flight.

The Davy Fitzgerald-trained gelding kicked on turning for home and kept on strongly down the straight to record a length-and-a-half success.

7/2 favourite Dowd's Angle who had raced prominently throughout, held off Killdunne for the runner-up spot.

The 4/1 winner had been third on his last start at Kilbeggan but had been taken out because of softer conditions twice since.

"He ran too free the last day and he did well to get him anchored today," said Fitzgerald.

"He's a summer horse. I'm not sure how long this weather is going to last but hopefully it will continue.

"He's been plagued with injury and has a lot to learn but he's improving."

(On course reporting by Alan Magee)