"Hardy" Approach isn't for passing

Modern Approach (9/1) made just about all to land the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden at Gowran for Jim Bolger and Kevin Manning.

Generally viewed as unfortunate not to get the verdict in the steward's room when losing out to Homesman at Limerick 23 days back, Modern Approach was back in trip here to an extended nine furlongs.

Favourite Lovemenot had every chance to go by from over a furlong out. Her wanderings before that saw Spring Garden (5/1) get hampered. Colm O'Donoghue eased up on Spring Garden afterwards as she finished tenth.

Up front after an exciting tussle Modern Approach edged out Lovemenot by a short-head.

"She's hardy and I think she will go on any ground. We'll see what the handicapper does," said Bolger afterwards.

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Ruby Quest trained by A.P.O'Brien, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be showing signs of being in season.

C. O'Donoghue, rider of Spring Garden, trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount was checked due to interference a furlong and a half from the finish.

The Stewards enquired into an incident approximately a furlong and a half from the finish involving Lovemenot, ridden by W.J. Lee, placed second and Spring Garden, ridden by C. O'Donoghue, unplaced, where it appeared Spring Garden received interference.

Evidence was heard from the riders concerned.

Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards deemed the interference to be accidental and took no further action.

(AM & EM)