France England and now an Irish win for Coulonces

Coulonces (10/1) won on debut for Gavin Cromwell in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Maiden Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Conor McNamara took the reins in the Darren Cahill silks, and the Le Havre mare got it done by two and quarter lengths and four and a half lengths from Manitopark and Highstreet Roller

The runner-up was here putting another ‘bf’ tag against her name in Ireland, all three at odds on. She was second on the other occasion as an even money shot, behind a 10/11 winner.

“That was great. It probably wasn't a brilliant race but she got the job done,” said Cromwell.

“She was second over hurdles in England and won four on the Flat in France so she definitely has ability.

“I thought she was beaten turning in but she stuck at it well. We'll see what the handicapper does and take it from there.

“She's no star and I was a little surprised as she worked terrible the other day and I was in two minds whether to run her. I took a chance and it paid off.”

A. McCurtin, rider of Red Finch trained by Timothy Doyle, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount weakened quickly and pulled up.

(GC & EM)