Thrilling Start to Munster Christmas Cup at Clonmel

Friday night at Clonmel brought electrifying action as the Riverside Kennels Munster Christmas Cup kicked off with impressive displays of speed and skill. Among the standout performers was I'm An Exile, who delivered a jaw-dropping performance in the first heat, clocking a phenomenal 28.27 seconds.

With a coveted €6,000 prize awaiting the eventual champion, the opening round featured five heats. Despite Swords Hero entering as the 4/5 favourite, it was I'm An Exile who stole the show in spectacular fashion. Bursting out of trap one with explosive pace, she seized an early lead and held firm, showcasing remarkable speed as she powered into the back straight. Clocking a sharp sectional of 16.00 to the penultimate bend, Andrew Lynch's star runner extended her advantage, leaving the chasing pack struggling to catch up.

Drive On Bono trailed in second during the early stages, while Swords Hero, despite a slow start, surged into third with a determined run around the final bends. However, I'm An Exile was untouchable at the front, maintaining a relentless pace to secure victory. Crossing the line a length and a half ahead of the fast-finishing Swords Hero, her exceptional time of 28.27 underlined her dominance and set a high standard for the competition.

The opening night of the Munster Christmas Cup promises an exciting tournament ahead, with plenty more thrilling races yet to unfold.