Tassarolo a poignant winner of Clonmel opener Following the passing of Full Of Hope Syndicate member John O'Shea, Tassarolo was a poignant winner of the opener at Clonmel, the Bulmers Light Maiden Hurdle. Fifth and third on his two previous efforts over flights and fitted with cheekpieces for the first time today, the Godolphin cast-off was returned favourite at 3/1. Settled behind the leaders by Gavin Brouder, the Denis Hogan-trained bay improved to the front on the long downhill run before the straight. Pressed by Bhean Saibhre on the run to the second last, the successful son of Farhh was soon ridden and ultimately kept on best away from the final flight, coming home two-and-three-quarters of a length to the good. Returned at 11/2, the aforementioned Bhean Saibhre (11/2 from 10s) had to settle for second under Conor Smithers, with Synchronize (11/1 from 50s early) was another five-lengths away in third. "Unfortunately one of his owners John O'Shea passed away yesterday and is being buried tomorrow, but his sister and family were adamant to run the horse," Hogan explained. "John hadn't been well for the past month and while it was just a pity we couldn't have done this sooner, he might have got us over the line today. There are three more in the syndicate." Hogan then added: "I bought him for 2,000gns as a Godolphin cast-off in Newmarket and while he has had a few issues, he has a fair level of ability and can mix it with the Flat for the summer. "That's Gavin's first ride for me and he has caught my eye a lot lately. He used his own head out there today and is value in these (confined jockeys') races." STEWARDS REPORTS * In accordance with the provisions of Rule 194(ii), the Raceday Stewards granted permission to Eoin Doyle, trainer of Yosemite Gold to run his charge without the declared tongue tie, as the animal resisted its application. * The Raceday Stewards granted permission for Maybe Someday to run in accordance with the provision of Rule 90(v) as positive identification can be made but there are discrepancies in the markings as recorded in the Passport. The Trainer shall have (30) days to update the passport to the satisfaction of an IHRB Veterinary Officer/Assistant. * J. Coen, rider of Power Of Words, trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount tried to run off the bend passed the stands. * P.J. O'Hanlon, rider of Tommy Go Maith, trained by Ian Patrick Donoghue, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount stopped quickly. * The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident between the second last and last hurdle on the first circuit involving Temple City (GB), ridden by M.M. McDonagh, Yosemite Gold (GB), ridden by H. Morgan, and Bhean Saibhre, ridden by C.D Smithers, where it appeared the horses came close together. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted. Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
