Sandor Clegane star of the show to claim win for Nolan

FLYING HIGH: Marvel De Cerisy and Rachael Blackmore on the way to victory in the William Hill Ireland Rated Novice Steeplechase at Punchestown yesterday. Picture: Healy Racing

Sandor Clegane, runner-up to Facile Vega in a Grade 2 bumper at Leopardstown last February, proved the star of yesterday’s action in Punchestown, producing an impressive performance to land the Connolly’s RED MILLS EBF Auction Maiden Hurdle.

The five-year-old, having his second start over flights, was providing trainer Paul Nolan (who had his last winner at the Curragh back in June) with a welcome change of luck as he romped home under Sean O’Keeffe, 12 lengths clear of Bleu D’enfer.