Spanish Tenor hits right notes in Tipperary

Spanish Tenor was well clear on official ratings in the claimer at Tipperary and proved that he was the one to beat.

An extended seven furlongs was the trip and he had a lovely position settled in behind the leaders.

He swung into the home straight in sixth and was asked for his effort by Oisin Orr a furlong and a half from home.

The seven-year-old gelding made eye-catching headway and moved to the front approaching the final furlong.

The 4/1 favourite was driven out to hold the closers Atlas (8/1) and Tommy Taylor (7/1) by half a length and a neck respectively.

Trainer Timothy Doyle said: "I thought the ground was ok for him and on his handicap mark and form he was entitled to do that.

"He'll probably be claimed. I'll be sad to see him go but at the same time he is rated 94 and he is below Listed class and a bit high in the handicap.

"He has been a great horse for us and was third here in the Concorde Stakes in the past."

Doyle had a winner in Punchestown last night with Ask David.

Ado McGuinness claimed the winner for €15,000 euro, and Noel Meade claimed third-placed Tommy Taylor for €15,000.

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes