Caheronaun leads as Pigeon Creek crashes out© Photo Healy Racing
Jumping won the day for Caheronaun as she claimed the three-mile beginners chase at Thurles.
Dessie Hughes' charge took over at the head of affairs at the fourth fence when 2/1 favourite He's A Delight blundered and appeared to pull up injured.
The mare put on a terrific display of jumping at the head of affairs, under Bryan Cooper, but was strongly pressed going to the second last by The Bosses Cousin (9/4 2f) and 33/1 outsider Pigeon Creek
The Bosses Cousin got it wrong two out and crashed out leaving Pigeon Creek to press the long-time leader hard going to the final fence.
Caheronaun seemed to be winning that argument when that rival also exited and went on to record a 10-length success over 50/1 shot Leading The Life who was gifted second.
The winner, backed from 6/1 into 4/1, was making her third start over fences, having finished fourth twice including on her chase debut here in November.
“She showed potential in hurdles over a trip and three miles suited her today,” said Hughes.
“She also had a bit of luck on her side. The track didn't really suit her in Tramore last time.”
Hughes' yard is enjoying a purple patch and he was adding to a double at Fairyhouse yesterday.
(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)
