Elimay powers clear to land Grade 2 contest

Elimay hit top gear in the closing stages to take the Coolmore NH Sires Capri Irish EBF Mares Novice Chase at Thurles, giving Willie Mullins a treble on the day.

JP McManus' charge was sent off a strongly supported 4/7 shot for the Grade 2 contest but was driven along to dispute turning for home in the two-and-a-half mile event.

Stable-mate Cut The Mustard appeared to be travelling better entering the straight and had a narrow lead two out as Elimay made a slight mistake.

Mark Walsh got a good tune out of Elimay going to the last, however, as she hit the front and started to motor.

The grey mare was pulling clear when Cut The Mustard made a mistake at the last and went on to record a nine-length success.

Elimay was making it two from two over fences having landed her beginners chase at Cork last month.

"Elimay is coming on all the whole time,” said Mullins.

“Mark said she missed the ditch and I thought she hit a flat spot. She did it the hard way then having to come around (wide).

"I thought Cut The Mustard ran a great race; she is improving and for her second run over fences I was very pleased with her. I'm pleased with the two of them.

"One, if not the two of them, could go for the Dawn Run Novice Chase at Limerick in March. I don't have anything else obvious for that race."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)