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Clara is on cloud nine

Clara Mc Cloud and Davy Condon return to the winners' enclosureClara Mc Cloud and Davy Condon return to the winners' enclosure
© Photo Healy Racing

Clara Mc Cloud returned to form following a couple of disappointing efforts to cause a 16/1 surprise in the Sporting Limerick Mares Handicap Hurdle.

Trained by Gordon Elliott for his partner Annie Bowles, the six-year-old travelled supremely well under Davy Condon to take it up early in the straight.

She was a bit awkward at the second last but was soon sent clear, and Condon could take things very easily in the closing stages to record a three and a quarter lengths verdict over Shuilamach Mini Vic was just over a length further back in third, while 5/4 favourite Tooreen could find no extra in the straight keeping on one paced in fourth.

The successful Cloudings mare won a point-to-point and a maiden hurdle for Condon’s father Michael last year, and the winning rider commented, “She’s available for lease and hopefully will make a nice horse for the summer.

“The drying ground was a help to her and Gordon thought she would definitely be placed today.”

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.