Urano scores again on switch to hurdles

Urano successfully reverted to hurdles to record his fourth career victory at odds of 7/1 in the Munster Hurdle at Clonmel.

Ruby Walsh sent the eight-year-old gelding to the front between horses before two out, and he held a three length advantage when left clear at the last.

The rallying Don’t Tell No One fell at the final flight and Nine Stiches also unseated his rider leaving Willie Mullins’ charge to come home 16 lengths clear. Aurora Bell took the runner-up spot, with disappointing 15/8 favourite Victory Mill a distant third.

Walsh said, “He ran a blinder in the Kerry National but disappointed in the Munster National and then came back to win at Wexford. He’s been on the go a long time, and probably very heavy winter ground doesn’t suit him.

“Early today he struggled to stay in touch but he came alive down the hill the second time and stayed at it better than most.

“The ground is very testing. In fairness to Clonmel they have somehow managed to find some fresh ground for us but even the fresh ground is very testing.”