Blondes makes winning start for Griffin Well-backed 'market-toppers' Blondes No More and Cailean's Angel fought out the finish of the Ancient East (Mares) Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel with the former just prevailing on outing number one for the Eoin Griffin yard. Mark Enright rode 7/2 chance Blondes No More and though she 'missed' the last, she was still able to fend off Cailean's Angel by a short head. There was no change following a steward's enquiry and the front pair had Lady Of The Sea four lengths back in third. "It was a weak race but I'm delighted to get it. I had planned about going the handicapping road with her but her owner Mark McDonagh, who is at a Rolling Stones concert today, spotted this race a few weeks ago and it has worked out great," said Griffin. "She'll tip away for the summer on the handicap route now. I had her mother (Sallyanka) and she won two bumpers and while this one isn't as speedy, she is tough and genuine and will come on a lot from that." D.G. Hogan, rider of Absentee trained by Denis Gerard Hogan, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung left in this race. The Stewards enquired into possible interference on the run to the line involving Blondes No More, ridden by M.A. Enright, placed first and Cailean's Angel, ridden by Rachael Blackmore, placed second. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards made no alteration to the Judges placings and took no further action. (TW & EM)
