Belle best in Cork opener The Pat Martin-trained Aspen Belle ran out a convincing winner of the opening six-furlong handicap at Cork today. The Roderic O'Connor filly travelled strongly throughout for Leigh Roche and was soon pressing front-runner Comhghairdeas. She disputed early in the straight and the 5/1 shot hit the front passing the two pole. Roche asked his mount for an effort going to the furlong marker and she galloped on strongly in the closing stages to post a two-length victory over Dandyman Port. Aspen Belle had run well on to finish second at Navan on her last outing and was recording her fourth career victory today. "She is a very forward going type and can be impatient but she jumped and travelled well,” said the winning rider. "I got there sooner than I wanted but she is so genuine and is tough and hardy." (Quotes by Tom Weekes)
