Colin another for Ryan and Mullins

After their win with Reafadda yesterday, John Ryan and Danny Mullins registered another Ballinrobe success when Bitview Colin sprung a 25/1 surprise in the opening McHale Fusion 3 Rated Novice Hurdle.

The Whitmore's Conn gelding had to survive a steward's enquiry before being confirmed the half a length victor over Delegate (15/8 second favourite).

Slight interference on the run-in necessitated the deliberations but it was no surprise when the winner all right came through.

Shay Casey, representing his sister, said afterwards: "Myself and John bought the horse for Imelda (O'Riordan). The horse is called after her son Colin who players for Sydney Swans.

"He used to play football for Tipperary. Colin was talking to me the other night and he said I hope you haven't named a bad one after me! He will be looking at this in Australia with his friends tonight. It's just fantastic."

"He is a smashing horse. He is out of Madam Stella and has a tremendous pedigree. Ma Filleule is a half-sister to the dam. The mother was a good horse in France," disclosed Ryan meanwhile.

"The horse was on fire at home. Like Foildubh, I bought this horse at the Derby Sale, I just thought there was something about him. He is a lovely mover. He disappointed us in a bumper but he loves that ground.

"Danny Mullins is riding out of his skin, he gave him a great ride. We will probably find something in Galway for him. He is a good tough horse, he stays going. He wants much further and that's why we made a lot of use of him.

"He will be a right horse when he goes over fences."

The Stewards enquired into possible interference after the last hurdle involving Bitview Colin, ridden by D.E. Mullins, placed first and Delegate (GB), ridden by J.W. Kennedy, placed second, where it appeared that Bitview Colin came off a straight line and interfered with Delegate (GB).

Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Bitview Colin had caused interference to Delegate (GB) but he had not improved his placing in so doing and therefore made no alteration to the Judges placings and took no further action.

(DM & EM)