The opening contest of the three-race Shane Broderick Appeal Fund Charity Race series at Clonmel yesterday proved a lucrative addition to the ever-growing fund for the stricken rider. Victory went to the Seamus Farrell-trained Strong Boost, who edged ahead of the favourite, Ardigeen Vale, close home. The winner was partnered by 38-year-old Killenaule solicitor Pat Kennedy. With two more private charity sweepstakes planned for the Curragh and Down Royal on the 20th of this month, the fund has already surpassed the £600,000 mark. Ted Walsh, who collected a cheque for £50,000 donated by Coolmore Stud during the afternoon, said: "Over £50,000 was raised at the head-shaving session organised by Audrey Cross at Naas on Sunday evening, and along with the Coolmore contribution, as well as the proceeds from today, they have raised £125,000 alone this week. Bagenalstown handler Tom Foley has the £25,000 Lartique Hurdle in mind for his charge, Hurmuzan, after the Shahrastani gelding battled on stoutly under a strong drive from Jamie Spencer (17) to collar Samadriza and John Murtagh at the furlong pole before forging ahead to win by three-parts of a length.

"He'll have to improve his jumping first, though," added Foley of the Aga Khan-bred gelding, who has two bumper victories under his belt this year, and more recently opened his account over hurdles at Wexford.