Larquebuse impressive in opening mares contest

Larquebuse destroyed her rivals with an impressive front-running performance in the opening Anton O'Toole Memorial Mares Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown this afternoon.

Gordon Elliott 's charge was sent off a solid 2/1 favourite and adopted more positive tactics today in the two-and-a-half mile contest.

She had old rival Lunch In Adare (who dead-heated with her in Fairyhouse) for company for most of the race before easing clear going to the second last flight, under Davy Russell.

The Saddler Maker mare had her rivals in trouble turning for home and went on to post an easy 10-length success over Mrs Milner

The winner had been fourth behind Well Set Up in Grade 3 company at Cork back in December over three miles.

Elliott said:- “It’s testing and I’d say it suited her. She’ll stay further and is a grand mare who will jump a fence.

“She’s had a break since her last run which suited her as well. The plan was to bounce out and make it as she stays well.

“We’ll have about 40 working here either tomorrow or on Tuesday morning. All the main Cheltenham horses will be here.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)