Helen Keohane has proved to be one of the apprentice 'finds' of the season, and the 7lb claimer partnered her fifth winner of the campaign on Celtic Project in Div. 2 of the Tote Account 1850 238669 Handicap at a wintry Bellewstown.
The nine year-old stretched clear inside the final furlong for a facile seven-length triumph over nearest rival Ardwelshin.
Blue Russian (10/1-14/1-7/1) landed quite a touch when sweeping to the front entering the final furlong for a comfortable three-length success in the first division.
Trainer Donie Hassett's explanation that the shorter trip and better ground had suited his charge was noted at a subsequent stewards enquiry into the winner's improvement in form.
Carlesimo could be set for a quick reappearance at Naas next Wednesday after a cosy victory in the opening Potato Protection Novice hurdle.
Paul Carberry sent the Erin's Isle gelding on approaching the penultimate flight, and could afford to take things easy from that point for a seven-length verdict over Treasured Guest.
Veteran handler Paddy Mullins was on the mark in the Redz/Lucky Ned Peppers Handicap hurdle, where Bob What made light of his welter burden to edge out Dariole.
