Don Poli and Bryan Cooper jump the final hurdle © Photo Healy Racing
Willie Mullins registered a quick double at Clonmel this afternoon when Don Poli claimed a competitive looking Grade 3 Surehaul Mercedes-Benz Novice Hurdle.
The French-import had been beaten at odds-on on his Irish debut at Navan before a hard-fought victory at Thurles last month but came into his own stepping up in trip again as he posted a convincing three-and-a-quarter length success.
Captainofthefleet took them along in the three-miler but was headed turning for home by the free-running Double Irish That rival's lead was short-lived, however, as Don Poli hit the front before the second last.
The Gigginstown gelding asserted before the final flight and galloped on strongly in the closing stages to score form Grand National entry Goonyella Seskinane kept on for third while Double Irish was fading in fourth when falling at the last.
Gordon Elliott, trainer of Double Irish, also saddled 5/2 favourite Moonshine Lad who proved a big disappointment when pulling up before the fourth last.
“He appreciated the trip and the test of stamina. The extra two furlongs brought about extra improvement in him,” said Mullins of the winner afterwards.
“He's a lazy type of a horse and Bryan gave him a reminder first time around. We'll look for another three-mile race for him and he's a chaser in the making.”
(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)
