THE Grade 2 Dorans Pride Novice Hurdle at Limerick is a proven source for future Grade 1 stayers and I would expect this year’s renewal to further enhance this reputation as the time figure was sensational for horses so inexperienced in such testing conditions.

Letsbeclearaboutit (154) set a strong gallop from the outset, maintaining it through the final circuit and closing sectionals when compared to the other hurdle races on the card.

However, despite his best efforts he always looked vulnerable to Favori De Champdou (158) who asserted entering the home straight before sealing victory with accurate hurdling at each of the last two obstacles.

In addition to being far quicker overall when adjusted for distance, Gordon Elliott’s eight-year-old covered the final circuit 4.1secs and 7.3secs quicker than Shecouldbeanything (118) and Optional Mix (122) respectively.

The closing sectionals were closer although the Grade 2 winner was the quickest again as he stopped the clock at 67.6secs from the third last hurdle.

In comparison, his stable companion covered the ground in 68.4secs to win the mares’ maiden hurdle and Optional Mix concluded her race in 70.9secs.

If needed, confirmation of the contest being of the highest quality can be derived from a split screen comparison of the three races over their final two circuits as Kalanisi Star (140), who was last to complete in the Grade 2, would have finished 30 lengths ahead of Optional Mix and slightly further ahead of Shecouldbeanything.

Effortless Vassy

There was further graded action at Greenmount Park the following day when Allegorie De Vassy (138+) confirmed why she is favourite for the Mares’ Chase at Cheltenham with an effortless victory in the Grade 2 Dawn Run Mares’ Novice Chase.

Carrigeen Lotus attempted to set a slow pace in the formative stages, although by the time the field reached their second fence the mare assumed command with some prodigious early leaps.

Sean O’Keeffe kept the talented six-year-old under wraps until clearing the fourth last, before allowing her to stride clear and complete her race in 76.4secs. In comparison, Maskada (148) covered the same ground in 77.9secs.

The Tim Duggan Memorial Handicap was the quicker race when adjusted for distance, which although partially due the slow early gallop in the graded event, recognises the strong gallop in the €26,550 contest.

Maskada made amends for her late departure when looking likely to win at Fairyhouse and gave the impression she can make the transition to graded company later in the season.

Rebel Gold (145) filled the runner-up berth for the second consecutive year to confirm his liking for Limerick conditions, while the blinkers sharpened up Krabat (143) who also revels in soft ground and has the advantage of being able to drop to a lower grade.