Sopelana strikes in Ballinrobe opener Sopelana stayed on powerfully down the straight to make it third time lucky over timber in the opener at Ballinrobe this afternoon. The Cian Collins-trained daughter of Expert Eye had been well held when third to Wonderfulwonderful on her most recent outing at Killarney. She went to post a 12/1 shot today and was produced to challenge going to the last flight. Jordan Gainford sent his mount on turning for home and she galloped on powerfully to post a four-and-three-quarter length win over Bridezilla. Gainford said afterwards:- "She was green (when sixth) here the first day but still ran well. Her run at Killarney was good and she stepped forward a lot from it.  "Cian's horses are in good form. It's proper soft ground but she handled it well and might go on winter ground." Television presenter Hector Ó hEochagáin and Mayo Gaa coach Paddy Tally are part of the winning Tallys Bar syndicate. (Quotes by Mark Nunan)
