Castlegrange easy winner of Thurles opener

It proved third time lucky for Castlegrange over fences as he ran out an easy winner of the opening beginners chase at Thurles this afternoon.

James Dullea 's charge had been brought down and refused on his previous two chase outings but it was plain sailing today.

Conor Orr produced the strong travelling Arcadio gelding to pick up the running early in the straight and he was asked to assert before the final fence.

The 11/4 favourite could afford to ease down in the closing stages to record a cosy 10 length success over Exciting Oscar

Castlegrange had attempted to follow rivals hampered by a loose horse at Punchestown and refused and Dullea said:-

"It's not a surprise as he just needed a bit of luck. He was brought down the first day (over fences) and the second day he was involved in the calamity at Punchestown.

"I thought he'd have had a hurdle won long before now and for one reason or another he hasn't. We always thought he was a grand horse and I thought Conor was excellent on him, he knows him, and well done to the owners who have been patient with him.

"In fairness the race today fell apart and our fella went on the ground a bit better than other horses so he looked more impressive than he was but hopefully he will win again."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)