Swelltime clears the last under Carl Millar© Photo Healy Racing
Swelltime recorded his first win in almost exactly two years, as he landed the first divide of the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle.
Last successful on August 25th, 2022, the versatile William O'Doherty-trained eight-year-old hinted at a return to form when fourth of 15 at Cork earlier this month.
Sent off a 12/1 chance this afternoon, the Born To Sea bay was keen in mid-division early on, improving to lead from the fifth flight.
Soon sent a few lengths clear by Carl Millar, the 100-rated victor had all his rivals off the bridle from three out and kept up the gallop from there, eventually coming home two-and-a-quarter lengths to the good.
The Ken Budds-trained Craic Eile (12/1) filled the runner-up spot under John Shinnick, while Burru (13/2) was a length-and-a-half away in third.
Returned the 11/4 favourite, Wexford winner General Clermont finished fourth.
"He was a very good horse and came to win his race at Limerick in March 2023 but got a full rotational fall at the second-last and spent three days inside at the racecourse," O'Doherty revealed.
"We had given up on him but my vet Derek Long, who recently passed away, was a big help to me.
"I have to thank the vets and my physio at home Brian McCarthy, who did a fantastic job with him.
"We ran the horse afterwards and knew he wasn't right, so we put him away but after the last day at Cork, we knew he had a chance coming here today.
"The man on him (Millar) gave him a serious ride and let him stride on. I had never met him before today but he knows his job and is a top man."
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
