18+ | T&Cs apply | Wagering and T&Cs apply | Play Responsibly | Advertising Disclosure

Coral collects over fences for O'Sullivan

 Coral River and Donagh Meyler beat Great Universe Coral River and Donagh Meyler beat Great Universe
© Healy Racing Photos

Coral River bagged a deserved victory over fences when running out a convincing winner of the Botanica International Rated Novice Chase at Clonmel.

Donagh Meyler produced the Ross O’Sullivan-trained gelding to dispute over the second last in the two-and-a-half mile contest and he started to assert, from Great Universe running to the final fence.

It turned into a dash, which suited, and this horse should have won over fences previously as I gave him an awful ride in Fairyhouse in January. I set sail too far out then and that race was in the back of my head today.

The Ol’ Man River gelding galloped on strongly in the closing stages to post a three-length win.

The 11/4 shot had been placed on his previous three outings over fences, most recently when pipped close home at Fairyhouse in mid-January.

Strategic Patience Rewards Pilot After Previous Errors

Meyler said afterwards:- "We went a nice sedate gallop and it suited, stepping up in trip. He jumped and travelled, had one scare up the back straight, and was foot-perfect most of the way. 

"It turned into a dash, which suited, and this horse should have won over fences previously as I gave him an awful ride in Fairyhouse in January.

“I set sail too far out then and that race was in the back of my head today.

"There is a 2m4f novice handicap chase for him at Punchestown, which is worth a few quid, so that is an option now."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)

About Press Association
We work closely with the Press Association, a leading provider of editorial content, as well as real-time racecard data and results. Experienced journalists provide us with reports on the action, from Irish race meetings, along with race previews and tips. Working with a reputable, well-established media organisation ensures we are providing accurate and reliable information.