Patrons enjoy top class racing at Thurles

Thurles staged its biggest race-day of the year on Sunday, the ground was good and with two Grade 2 races down for decision, as well as a good supporting programme, it rivalled Leopardstown, Punchestown or indeed Fairyhouse in terms of quality with the bumper attendance treated to some fireworks.

In terms of prize-money, the feature race on the card was the Grade 2 Mares Novice Chase over an extended two mile and four. On paper it looked a competitive enough contest but as things turned out it proved to be a one horse race as Camelia De Cotte from the Willie Mullins yard went to post a well backed favourite to make if five wins in her last six outings and she did the business in style.

Setting off in front, the seven-year-old took a while to warm to her task by jumping out to her left at some of her fences, however, once jockey Paul Townend got her motoring she fairly burned off the opposition to finish in splendid isolation twenty lengths clear of Grey Waters.

Make no mistake but this was a performance by a mare that we are going to hear a lot more about. In his post race remarks, Townend revealed that the winner can be a little difficult at times but she is learning fast. While there is nothing set in stone she will be well entered up so connections will be able pick and choose where she next appears.

 

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