Race seven at the Limerick Track on Saturday night last saw the Gammell Car Sale AO 550 take place and this was landed by arguably the performer of the night in Valinor.
By Michael Maher
Trained by Declan McDonagh of Liscannor for Paul Horig and Catherine Darcy, the 7/2 chance had been out of luck in recent starts, however, she popped out in front from four on this occasion and that ultimately proved decisive. Indeed, the daughter of Good News and Galadriel proved a class above her rivals thereafter as she drew clear before crossing the line six lengths clear of Highview Bizarr in second. The time was a sensational 29.42 .10f for the 550-yard contest.
There was Clare success also at the weekend in the BoyleSport Irish Derby at Shelbourne Park when Extra Gain landed heat 4 for trainer Gerry Holian and owner Susan Garrahy from Clonlara. He showed plenty of place and just held on by half a length to UK raider March On Freddie for trainer David Mullins and London owner George Watson. The winning time was 29.82 with the Jerry Melia trained and owned A Lucky Julie third.
