Skillman Ave strikes for Cromwell & Coen Bought for E135,000 as a yearling, the Gavin Cromwell-trained Skillman Ave belatedly opened her account in the Tipperary Town Apprentice Handicap. Down to a mark of 68, from an initial rating of 77, the Sam Coen-ridden three-year-old was sent to post a 5/1 chance. In a share of the lead from flag fall, the Derek Kierans-owned bay was marginally headed inside the final furlong, but battled back gamely when ridden, getting up to prevail by a neck. Returned at 9/2, Realtin Fantasy was the one just denied, with An Laoachmor, who was the 9/4 favourite, half-a-length away in third. "I was told to ride her good and forward with a lot of aggression and she'd keep galloping. She was good and hardy, got headed and galloped on again," Coen, who was partnering his first winner for Cromwell, reflected. "It was good to get it done for Gavin and thanks to all his team." STEWARDS REPORTS * The Raceday Stewards fined Seamus G. O'Donnell trainer, E65 for failing fit the declared cheekpieces to Theriverrunsdeep, prior to entering the parade ring. * T. Casey, rider of Theriverrunsdeep, trained by Seamus G. O'Donnell, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount reared leaving the stalls. * Charles Weld, trainer of Twinkling Toes, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his charge was showing signs of being in season. Additional reporting by Alan Magee
