Hartani proves tough customer in opener

Hartani produced a game front-running performance to land the spoils in the opening conditions race at Tipperary.

Johnny Murtagh was niggling on the Aga Khan colt leaving the back straight but he answered every call in the closing stages.

The John Oxx-trained 11/8 favourite was tackled by Montebell inside the final furlong but was always pulling out enough to get the verdict by a length-and-a-half.

The winner was following up a course and distance success three weeks ago.

"It was a good performance. We weren't sure about the ground for him," said assistant trainer 'Slim' O'Neill.

"Johnny said he was just finding it that bit quick and he changed his legs a couple of times on it.

"He'll probably get a little break now and we'll wait to get some rain. He should step up and stay further."

Gary Carson & Thomas Weekes