Doldido provides popular Sheahan with win

Veteran Killarney owner Donie Sheahan had his colours carried to a popular success in the opening Laganore Maiden Hurdle as Doldido got up close home under Brian Hayes at Clonmel. Motcomb Street looked set to score when striking the front approaching the final flight but the always prominent Doldido was not to be undone.

The Mick Winters-trained gelding, who was quite keen in the early stages, finished strongly to beat Motcomb Street by half a length at odds of 7/1. Ballybrowney Jack also put in a strong finish to be just a head further back in third, while 9/4 favourite Diego Manchego faded after a mistake at the penultimate flight.

“I’m still the King! I’ve been a very lucky owner and For Bill was outstanding,” said a delighted Sheahan who was surrounded by many well-wishers.

Winters said, "He had a great run last year at Mallow but when he came back, a month ago his bloods weren't right. He's well bred and while he might find it tough going up in grade, there'll be fun to be had out of him.

"His mother (Dromhale Lady) was a good tough mare and had stamina. Unfortunately she died and he was actually raised by a piebald mare."

Winters is currently in the process of moving his operation and explained, "There is 37 nice acres but the place is a bit small and it's costing us too much money as there are a lot of horses in a small space and it's economically not viable.

"It would be ideal for people pre-training or training point to pointers, on a smaller scale. It's within a mile of Kanturk town.

"We're hoping to move to my uncle's farm and it's good land. It's not set up yet so we have to sell out our own place before moving in."

(TW & AM)