Clara is on cloud nine

Clara Mc Cloud returned to form following a couple of disappointing efforts to cause a 16/1 surprise in the Sporting Limerick Mares Handicap Hurdle.

Trained by Gordon Elliott for his partner Annie Bowles, the six-year-old travelled supremely well under Davy Condon to take it up early in the straight.

She was a bit awkward at the second last but was soon sent clear, and Condon could take things very easily in the closing stages to record a three and a quarter lengths verdict over Shuilamach Mini Vic was just over a length further back in third, while 5/4 favourite Tooreen could find no extra in the straight keeping on one paced in fourth.

The successful Cloudings mare won a point-to-point and a maiden hurdle for Condon’s father Michael last year, and the winning rider commented, “She’s available for lease and hopefully will make a nice horse for the summer.

“The drying ground was a help to her and Gordon thought she would definitely be placed today.”

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes