Lexi toughs it out in Limerick opener

The market principles Court Lexi (Evens) and Spring Hawk (3/1) battled out the finish to the opening Supermacs Dooradoyle Mares Maiden Hurdle at Limerick this afternoon, with the former just getting the verdict by a head.

Trained by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Paul Carberry the winner was having just her second start over hurdles, having finished a good third on her hurdling debut at Sligo earlier this month behind Dr Machini.

Before that the 5yo daughter of Court Cave had four bumper runs to her name finishing second on her first two starts, both of which came at Downpatrick before winning on her third attempt again at Downpatrick in August.

She disappointed on her last bumper start where she finished a well beaten sixth at Perth also in August of last year.

Having raced towards the rear for much of the contest she made progress from the third last flight. She was second as they turned into the home straight and soon challenged the leader.

Spring Hawk under Tim Carroll then came with her challenge as they raced on terms towards the last. Court Lexi then gained a narrow lead on the run-in and maintained that advantage all the way to the line to score by just a head.

The duo raced six lengths clear of the third placed horse who was Misty Weather for Vincent Halley and Ian Power at 25/1.

After opening at 11/8 this morning, the winner was well supported and opened on track at 11/10. She was backed into Even money favourite at the off.

Winning trainer Gordon Elliott, who was recording his fifth winner of the new campaign, said afterwards: "Paul gave her a good ride. He said she is still a bit green and he got there a bit too soon.

"She will come on for the run and will go for a mares hurdle next."

7/1 shot Ms Bliss was withdrawn at the start on veterinary advice.

Donal Murphy & Thomas Weekes