Ceol takes time to find top gear

Ceol Rua got going late to land the spoils in the opening maiden at Ballinrobe this evening.

Pat Smullen was at work with over half a mile to run on the hotpot, who was backed from evens in the morning and sent off 4/6 favourite on track.

The Willie Mullins trained mare looked to be struggling to get into contention rounding the top turn but found her feet when they straightened up.

The daughter of Bob Back stayed on strongly to challenge inside the final furlong and got up in the closing stages to record a half-length victory over 20/1 shot Cnoc Na Sioga

Sword Of Destiny had claimed long-time leader Moonlight Fencer over two furlongs out but was strongly pressed by the runner-up turning for home.

The pair were both trumped inside the final furlong however as the favourite finally found top gear in the closing stages of the 1m6f contest.

The winner was making her first start on the Flat, having landed a bumper and two hurdles previously.

"They went a good gallop. She's all stamina and heart," said Smullen afterwards.

"The tight track was not totally to her liking but she showed great determination in the last furlong-and-a-half.

"Stamina and courage on the day won out."

(On course reporting by Thomas Weekes)