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Fleur blossoms in Ballinrobe opener

Fleur De Nuit blew away her opposition when running out an impressive winner of the opening Ladies Day at Ballinrobe Maiden.

Declan McDonogh tracked the leader Perfect Gemstone before letting his mount ease into the lead three furlongs from home.

She soon stretched clear and was kept going down the straight to pull away in good style for a 13-length success. Long Strand just edged the battle for second, ahead of 4/5 favourite Hired Hand

John Bleahen 's charge had claimed a bumper in good style at the track late last month and was making a successful debut under Flat rules.

"It was worth my trip coming here. I had horses being vetted for the Derby sale," said Bleahen.

"She loves racing and is awful genuine. If she didn't win today I was thinking of going hurdling but we'll put that on the back burner now.

"We're not going to get carried away but maybe we can dream of getting black-type at some stage.

"I honestly haven't a clue where to go with her. I'll get some advice from Declan and others - Declan was impressed."