Crassus and Denis O'Regan jump the last © Photo Healy Racing
The Noel Meade-trained Crassus gained a deserved victory over hurdles in the opener at Limerick this afternoon.
It was a fourth outing over timber for the War Command gelding who had been runner-up twice and fell when still in contention on his other run.
Denis O'Regan had the 13/8 shot to the fore throughout and he responded well when tackled in the straight.
A better jump two from home gave him an advantage over 10/11 shot Palm Beach and he held that rival at bay in the closing stages, despite running around a bit on the run-in.
Crassus posted a length-and-a-half victory at the line.
The winning rider said:- "He jumped very well, his experience won it for him and he was a good ride.
"His jumping made the difference coming up the straight and he handled the ground because it was the first race. Hopefully he can progress."
(Quotes by Tom Weekes)