Sizing Europe's trainer Henry De Bromhead struck with his first winner of the new season when his Cordelia Belle gained a valuable maiden win in the Family Day 13th July Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse today.

Ridden by De Bromhead's stable jockey Andrew Lynch, the daughter of Accordion travelled well to get into contention before the home straight but then seemed to get outpaced racing away from the second last flight. However, Cordelia Belle did battle very well and went past leader Hareth from the last for a three and a quarter lengths win over that rival.

Afterwards De Bromhead said “I'm delighted to get the win as she looked a little unlucky at Wexford and is a half sister to Moscow Mannon and will now be a lovely mare to breed from for the Flanagans (owners).

“She came back with a nasty cut the last day and we had to get it fixed up but she has been working really well and did that really well today.

Regarding the slow jump at the second last flight, De Bromhead said “Andrew said he just wanted to pop it and didn't want to get to the front too soon.

“He probably didn't expect to be that far back after jumping it but it worked out perfect and it gave her something to aim at going to the last; it would have been disappoint if she found nothing!”

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson.