Well backed Trotter proves game in opener

Manger Et Trotter knuckled down well in the closing stages to claim the opening maiden hurdle at Clonmel this afternoon.

Enda Bolger 's charge had attracted support for the two-mile three-furlong contest, backed from 20/1 this morning and sent to post a 7/1 shot.

She travelled strongly, under Mark Walsh, to dispute before the straight and was going best approaching the penultimate flight.

A slight mistake there put her under pressure and long-time leader Chris's Dream proved a game foe.

The JP McManus-owned mare found more in the closing stages, however, to gain a half length success.

The winner was making just her third start under rules and had finished a promising fifth to Glens Harmony at Thurles last month.

Racing manager Frank Berry said afterwards:- "She ran well at Thurles and came on lovely from it and the softer ground and the extra few furlongs played into her hands.

"Mark said she'll jump a fence in time and was game and kept going. We'll find a little handicap along the way with her now.

"She is a half-sister to Gilgamboa and will jump a fence in time."

6/4 favourite Imperial Way finished well beaten in tenth and was found to be blowing hard post-race

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)