Cry in Full control at Powerstown Full Cry (5/1) made a grand start for his first venture outside point-to-point company when taking the Clonacody (C & G) Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel in the hands of Andrew Lynch. The well-related sort, third and fourth 'between the flags,' in two efforts for Ger Hourigan, travelled and jumped with a purpose, near the speed, throughout this two and a half miler. He was shaping more like a winner, when Clounts Meadows took a heavy fall two out, leaving the victor in front and slightly impeding his momentum. Thankfully Clounts Meadows and 'Slippers' Madden got up after their spill, whilst Henry De Bromhead's Fully Cry went on to comfortably defeat Theatre Flame by two and a quarter lengths. Madden was brought to hospital as a precaution but was lucid and appeared fine. "He's a nice horse. The boys that own him are from Garristown (Garristown Aintree Syndicate), up the road from me. They've been lucky," revealed Lynch. "He jumped super and he loved the ground. He'll probably make a nice chaser as well. I'd say the boys will have a bit of fun with him during the summer first. "I thought I was going a bit better than him (Clounts Meadows). Obviously 'Slippers' lad is a tough horse. You never know but I was happy with my lad at that stage anyway." "He jumped big and came from point to points where Ger Hourigan recommended him to us. The lads (Garristown Aintree Syndicate) were looking for a horse for the summer and he should give us plenty fun. He'll stay over hurdles as he's only five," said successful handler Henry De Bromhead. Andrew Lynch's uncle Val Lynch is a member of the winning syndicate. Meanwhile Conright Boy badly disappointed those that made him even money favourite, with a sixth place effort. (TW & EM)
