Captains in control for O'Keeffe & Rothwell

Captains Nephew streaked clear in the closing stages of the Derrygrath Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel to run out an impressive winner for trainer Philip Rothwell.

The 108-rated Mahler gelding was making his sixth start over hurdles and the 17/2 shot dismissed his field in some style.

Darragh O'Keeffe produced his mount to challenge on the bridle turning for home and he went on from long-time leader Kudasheva going to the second last.

The winner was driven clear before the final flight and stayed on strongly to record a 18 length success over Clodders Dream

O'Keeffe revealed afterwards:- "Philips's father-in-law passed away so he wasn't able to make it but it was nice he won.

“He thought he'd run a good race, said to ride him handy and I got a good lead into the race. He jumped and quickened away well.

"He ran into the back of horses the last day in a handicap at Leopardstown so I'd say he is better than the result. He came from point to points and for a big horse, would appreciate better ground.

"It was nice to get a winner for (owner) Tom Doran as I was beaten a short-head on one of his last Sunday."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)