Stronger Dearg leaps to victory

Leap Dearg looked an improved gelding when scoring in fine style on his reappearance at Naas last month, and confirmed that impression by following up in the Club Stand Restaurant Handicap Chase at Clonmel.

Phillip Enright’s mount travelled well to head the front-running Kilcarry Bridge approaching the final fence, and drew clear on the run-in to score by a comfortable three and a quarter lengths.

There was a yawning gap of 28 lengths further back to Foritsa in third. Spot Fine was chasing the leaders when taking a fatal fall two out, bringing down Killtilane Rose and Paddy O Dee All three riders appeared unscathed, although David Casey was reportedly sore.

Tyner said, "He is an excellent jumper and made lengths at every fence. He was a big weak horse last year and wasn't the easiest to put weight on.

"We won't race him too soon and while I've no plans, two and a half miles on a bigger track would be ideal."

(TW &AM)