Clonmel 16 5 24 Tideways Hero rachael Blackmore win the Tote Handicap Hurdle © Photo Healy Racing
The Henry De Bromhead trained Tideways Hero opened her account over flights when benefiting from a fine ride by Rachael Blackmore to win Division l of the Download The New Tote App Handicap Hurdle at Clonmel.
Having just her second start outside of maiden company, the six-year-old was anchored right at the back of the field in an effort to get her to settle early on.
Travelling nicely in eighth place after three out, Blackmore crept closer entering the straight, heading Princess Sophia at the next, before proving too strong for the closing Inforapenny from the back of the last.
The mare, who is owned by Killarney man Niall O'Leary, was having her first start since last October.
Winning trainer Henry De Bromhead added: Henry de Bromhead, “She jumped really well but is a bit keen still and ran a bit fresh but Rachael did a great job. She came through really nice.
“We gave her a good break over the winter. She’s a real good ground mare and looks like she might have strengthened up a bit so I’m delighted.”
Additional reporting by Alan Magee.
