Slevin doubles up on Conna Cross

JJ SLevin completed a double at Cork as Conna Cross justified favouritism in the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle.

The Jimmy Mangan-trained gelding was adding to a Tramore beginners’ chase win last month, while Slevin was on the mark in the opener here aboard Us And Them

Conna Cross gradually reeled in Mount Brandon in the straight, with the 9/4 favourite leading soon after the last and driven out to score by half a length.

The pair stretched clear of the remainder with Grey Atlantic Way all of 22 lengths back in third.

Mangan said, “We think he has a high enough mark over fences but he’ll probably mix it with both. Two miles on fast ground might have him in trouble but the going made up for it today. It’s very demanding out there and he’s a good strong horse.

“They didn’t hang around and when he was pushing early on I thought there was something wrong. The owners are here today to see him win so it’s great.”