Leblon edges battle in opener The opening juvenile hurdle at Clonmel produced a thrilling finish with Leblon just edging the verdict from Are You The One. The 15/8 favourite was sent to the front before the second last by Sean McDermott but was soon tackled by Are You The One. The pair fought out a ding-dong battle from before the last with John O'Shea's charge getting her head in front where it mattered. The Dansili filly had chased home the impressive Alaivan at Gowran Park last Friday. "I took a chance running her back so quick. It's not something I'd normally do with a three-year-old but this looked a good opportunity," said O'Shea. "I gave her a speculative entry in the big race at Leopardstown over Christmas but at this stage she is unlikely to run. "But in saying that not too many three-year-olds have been that impressive so far. There is also a Grade 3 at the back of January. "We'll see how she comes out of this. She had a busy enough Flat campaign and we did intend to give her a break. She'll probably strengthen up next year."
