Catunda going well

CATUNDA Ashmore, who won his trial stake at Galbally last season and was beaten in the semi-final of the Boylesports Derby by Sandy Sea, returned to the Limerick venue yesterday and looks poised to take the Galbally Stakes, judged on his showing in the opening round yesterday.

Already a winner of the Munster Cup at Newcastlewest this season, the black raced away from Stop and Stare to take the only turn in his opening course by four lengths. Glen Aine may give him most to do in the bottom half of the draw.

The top of the draw is more open with Killeagh Turbo and Whytanyard Ned a possible semi-final pairing.

Quite a few contenders impressed in both trial stakes yesterday.

At the top of the Derby Trial Stake Maneens Blonde and Carrigmore Hearth can make the semi-finals while Killinane Black and Haradson can advance from the bottom of the card. Maneers Blonde could be the one to advance to Clonmel.

In the Oaks Trial Stake Beabus and Cooga Cara look the part at the top of the draw while Tommys Dutchie and Vara Dero are going well at the bottom. Beabus, who was narrowly beaten by Walk Away in the final of a trial Stake at Kilmallock, may go one better.

Coursing this morning will again commence at 11.30.