Ad Caelum clears away impressively to score on handicap debut under Sean O'Keeffe for John Ryan

Ad Caelum is a maiden no more after winning the 2m4f mares' handicap hurdle in decisive style under Sean O'Keeffe.

The winner had been running consistently well in maiden company for John Ryan, never finishing outside the first four in as many attempts, but had to reverse form with 2-1 favourite Fillusin from a maiden hurdle at the track eight days ago.

However, the favourite was beginning to send out distress signals approaching two out, whereas Ad Caelum put in a nimble leap and shot to the front before quickening clear to land odds of 15-2.

Ryan told Racing TV: "The rain really helped her and she's an exciting mare for the future. Sean really fancied her and I was a bit concerned as she likes to get her toe in, but the ground has gone yielding which helped. 

"She'll need soft ground and should be progressive in handicaps, or she could go to a rated novice hurdle."

Dream start for Baby

Dream On Baby put in an impressive display in the 2m7f maiden hurdle on her debut for Emmet Mullins, belying her starting price of 22-1 to bolt up by five and a half lengths.

The four-year-old had two runs in bumpers and was taking a big step up in trip but she was always travelling powerfully under 7lb claimer Conor Clarke, bursting to the lead approaching the last before dashing nicely clear of Bossofthebrownies.

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