Limerick Lace in charge for Cromwell and Walsh

Gavin Cromwell 's Limerick Lace cruised home by some 16 lengths in the Mahon Falls Mares Chase at Clonmel.

The 9/4 favourite was sent after the leader Heia approaching the straight and headed her in jumping two out.

Mark Walsh pushed the new leader along to assert by the last which she jumped well. Heia blundered, though, and almost came to a standstill before plodding on for a remote second at 11/4.

Frank Berry, racing manager for owner JP McManus, said: "She did that nicely and is a fine mare who handles those conditions really well.

"The runner-up got very tired so it made the winning distance a bit longer, but we're delighted with her and Gavin was pleased with her coming here.

"There is no grand plan and we'll see what comes up. She'll tip away in those mares' races and the softer the better for her as she just keeps going through it."

This was Limerick Lace's fifth career success comprising a bumper, a hurdle and three chases.

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes