Rathnaleen Kal flicks through the final flight© Photo Healy Racing
Rathnaleen Kal (9/1) reeled in keen-going and clear Lilian Bland to win the first divide of Clonmel's extended two mile three furlong handicap hurdle.
She grabbed that long-time leader before two out and flicked through the top of the last before keeping on best for Gary Noonan.
The duo prevailed by half a length from a staying-on Reflectionist (6/1). For as keen as Lilian Bland was, the 3/1 favourite took credit for battling on in third.
Eoin McCarthy said: "She is a lovely filly and I'm delighted for John (Moylan, owner) who has had an awful lot of patience with her. We thought a lot of her but picked up a lot of knocks and injuries, but thankfully put it all together today.
"She had a solid run in her first handicap the last day and hopefully can build on it. She'll stay racing on safe ground during the summer."
This was Rathnaleen Kal's breakthrough success on her eighth start.
Additional reporting by Tom Weekes
