Russell scores again on Knockfierna

Knockfierna continued her successful association with leading rider Davy Russell when taking the Grade 3 Coolmore NH Sires EBF Mares Novice Chase in fine style at Thurles.

The daughter of Flemensfirth had previously shown her quirky nature by running out at the second last under Slippers Madden when holding every chance at the Limerick Christmas meeting.

However she has now won on five of the six occasions that she's been partnered by Russell, who was completing a double on the afternoon following the earlier victory of Folsom Blue

The Charles Byrnes-trained mare, successful four times now in Graded company over hurdles and fences, headed the front-running Belle Brook (25/1) approaching the final fence.

The well-backed 6/4 favourite kept on well on the run-in to beat that rival by a length and three quarters, with Dare To Doubt (3/1) a further 16 lengths away in third.

Byrnes said, “Davy gets on really well with her, and him being on board made up for the 6lb she was giving away. Her jumping was a bit slow at times but when Davy wanted her to jump she was there for him.

“She has been a revelation and will go to Limerick on March 18 for a similar race.”