The Conker Club ended an 18 race losing run when winning her third race at Thurles today, landing the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Chase for trainer Bill Harney and jockey Eamonn Corbett.

The daughter of Beneficial had previously gained wins in 2013 and April 2015 and while placed nine times since her latest win, including a runner-up finish six times, today gained another elusive win when staying on for a three and a quarter lengths win over Courtncatcher

Afterwards Harney revealed “she has been a nightmare to train and anything unusual, like a stranger entering the yard, upsets her!”

The locally based trainer added “she had been knocking and banging on the door and deserved that win. If she wins another race she’ll be lucky and I won’t be in any panic with running her next.”

“I only have six horses riding out and four are running today!”

STEWARDS REPORT

The Stewards requested a report from W. Harney, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of The Conker Club, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that his charge disappointed on her last start at Clonmel for no obvious reason. He added that the mare had been very consistent but when things didn't go her way she dropped herself out at Clonmel. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

By Tom Weekes