Point to point champ O'Neill gets good tune from Robin Dual point-to-point champion Barry O'Neill made his first ride on Tintown Robin a winning one when he landed the finale at Clonmel, the Powerstown Demesne (Q.R.) Handicap Hurdle. Owned and bred by County Kilkenny-based Julia Foran, Tintown Robin is trained by Vincent Halley at nearby Kill County Waterford. He won his second race here at Clonmel, and third overall, coming through from the back from four out. The son of Robin Des Pres quickly put the race to bed from before the last, keeping on strongly in the closing stages to defeat Whatsinthecorner by four lengths. Favourite Thisonesforollie had no extra to give from before the last and she finished three and a quarter lengths off the front pair in third. "He is a very consistent sort but always seems to be the bridesmaid. In fairness to the horse he wins one for us every year and we'll see what the handicapper gives him and possibly go for another handicap hurdle," said Halley. "He is as genuine and is always in the money. Barry gave him a lovely ride today and we might go for another hurdle before going chasing then." (TW & EM)
