Sassaway on the mark again at Tipperary

Sassaway proved another well-backed winner when landing the five-furlong handicap at Tipperary for Eamonn O'Connell.

The eight-year-old had traded as big as 9/2 this morning but was sent to post the 2/1 favourite. Little Sweetheart soon got to the front from her wide draw as the runners elected to come stand's side.

She was soon tracked by Sassaway, who hit the front over a furlong from home and kept on well for a length-and-a-quarter success. Hi Empress won the battle for the runner-up spot.

The winner had also landed this race in 2013 and was securing her fifth career success.

"The handicapper gave her a chance in fairness and she's a versatile mare, who has also won over seven furlongs," said O'Connell.

"She'll be busy all summer, likes good ground and she'll definitely be at the Curragh in June. I've no immediate plans but this will be her last year at it."

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)