Claragh Native pops over the last under Davy Russell© Photo Healy Racing
Fitted with a tongue strap for the first time, Claragh Native took the 'Win A Diamond Ring Today' Handicap Hurdle for the second year running.
Trained by Arthur Moore and ridden by Davy Russell, the 7yo son of Beneficial has performed consistently since his victory in the race last year but never managed to get his head in front.
Eight of his nine starts since last year's win have come over fences but back over hurdles for the first time in almost a year, he was waited with in mid-division in the early stages.
He moved into a closer sixth at the third last before he progressed into the lead at two out.
He was sent on by Russell from there and quickly went clear, staying on well to record an easy seven and a half-length success.
The 11yo Clarkey ran a fine race to finish second at 16/1 under Jody McGarvey for Christy Roche while Pink Goddess was a further three lengths back in third at 8/1 under Martin Ferris for Geoffrey Cuthbert.
The winner was well backed on-course from his opening show of 4/1 into 11/4 clear favourite at the off.
Winning trainer Arthur Moore said afterwards: "He'll go back chasing at Listowel. There is a two-and-a-half and a two-mile race there for him. Hopefully the ground stays dry.
"The ground is the biggest factor for him and he likes this track. He's been in the money every time this year and it's nice to get his head in front."
(On-course reporting by Gary Carson)
