Boom Box blasts home for O'Donoghue

A change of equipment was credited with helping Boom Box to settle better and it worked a treat as he took the honours in the claimer at Fairyhouse.

The four-year-old son of Big Bad Bob chased the leaders in this mile and a half contest before winding up his challenge on the home bend.

He was given a squeeze by Colm O'Donoghue approaching the straight and made stealthy progress from third to grab the lead with less than a quarter of a mile to negotiate.

He was ridden to assert coming to the final furlong and kept up the gallop to win by two and a quarter lengths from 7/2 favourite The Fox Tully who stayed on nicely for second.

Jessica Harrington 's winner was backed in from 11/2 to 4/1. Bishop Of Bling completed the placings at 16/1.

Jockey Colm O'Donoghue said: "He has always shown a level of ability. Jessie has always liked him. He jumps quite well also but he can be quite hard on himself and quite keen.

"I thought the horse was in great shape. Jessie has changed the bit on him today, he settled and travelled and did everything right. He stays well and handles the ground.

"I was even taking him back for most of the way. I knew he'd stay well so when I kicked on he was in good health.

"He ran well over the mile (in Galway). Jessie was very happy with him coming here and said he would be in with a big shout. She said he's been super at home and to ride him like a nice horse in the race and expect him to run a big race.

I'm delighted. I'm very privileged to ride for Jessie. She's a lady and she gives you great confidence every day you ride."

Additional reporting by Gary Carson