Chiclet back after "off day"

From an early stage it was apparent that Chiclet was really relishing things from the front under Pat Smullen in the Christmas Party Nights At Dundalk Stadium Handicap. Those pace-setting tactics took the Dandy Man filly all the way to her third course and distance win.

Second favourite at 100/30 to bounce back from her eclipse behind the market-leader, Danz Gift (finished last tonight), after their meeting here from a fortnight back, Tracey Collins' charge eventually convincingly accounted for Fast In The Wind by a length and a quarter.

Second in that race fourteen days back, Kimbay was fourth this time.

"I don't know what happened the last day. We got her home and checked out and couldn't find anything wrong," said Collins.

"She was healthy and well so we sent her back up again. She has so much pace and we used it today.

"Horses are the same as humans and can have an off day. I'm very happy to have her back.

"She loves it up here and I'll have to have a look through the program now."

The Stewards requested a report from Tracey Collins, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Chiclet, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that her charge disappointed on her last start when running too freely.

She added that today's change in tactics by riding her from the front, helped her charge settle better and return to form. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

R.P. Whelan, rider of Danz Gift, trained by Ms. Sheila Lavery, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount hung badly in the straight.

J.A. Heffernan, rider of Burren View Lady trained by Denis Gerard Hogan, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount was leaning right in the straight.

(GC & EM)