Avondhu Lady took full advantage of what appeared a lenient mark when taking the two and a half miles mares handicap hurdle on the McCarthy Insurance Group sponsored card at Cork.

The nine-year-old daughter of Beneficial currently holds a rating in the 130’s over fences but, despite carrying top-weight, was racing off a mark of just 104 here.

Bryan Cooper had the 6/4 favourite up with the pace throughout, and she settled the issue by asserting before the final flight.

David Fenton’s charge had four and half lengths to spare over Evesham Star at the line, with Special Token another five lengths back in third.

Fenton said, “I’m delighted with that. Coming back over hurdles you never know but I thought if things went right she would win. She’s won on heavy ground and good, and is very tough and genuine.

“I’m not really sure of plans after today as she could go back over fences or go for another hurdle.”

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes