Galtee Mist a welcome winner for Murphy

Galtee Mist popped up at 28/1 for Joseph Murphy in the GAIN Equine Nutrition Handicap at the Curragh.

Gary Carroll 's mount raced close to the pace in third behind Miss Molly T and Wonder Elzaam in this seven furlong assignment.

Carroll got into the drive position as he attempted to reel in new leader Wonder Elzaam approaching the final furlong.

His willing partner got her head in front in the final 150 yards and moved a length and three quarters clear at the winning post.

Runner-up Wonder Elzaam was another big-priced horse at 25/1. He came in three and a half lengths ahead of 11/1 Dragon Of Malta Soaring Monarch the 4/1 favourite, completed the placings in fourth.

Assistant trainer Joe Murphy jnr said: “She's a very genuine filly and handled conditions well.

“She raced sensibly today, she can do a bit too much. It's nice to get a winner as it hasn't been a very fruitful year.

“She's ran pretty consistently all season so she deserved that. She'll probably come back here on Friday, she's in over six and a mile.”

The Stewards requested a report from Joseph G. Murphy, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Galtee Mist, placed first, as compared with its recent run at Listowel on the 22nd September. Joseph Murphy, Authorised representative for Joseph G. Murphy, trainer, reported that their horse's had started to run below par prior to Listowel but there were no abnormalities found. At Listowel their charge clipped a heel in running and failed to act on the ground, this matter being reported by M.A. Gallagher, the rider on the day. He added that since Listowel their horses were freshened up and today's success was the first for the yard since August. In his opinion the horses may be returning to form. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the content of the report.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson