Headgear works oracle with Wildcatted

Blinkers fairly sharpened up Wildcatted in the two mile three handicap hurdle at Limerick as he absolutely hacked up under Brian O’Connell.

The 16/1 made headway to lead upon jumping the fourth last. He then steadily drew right away from his rivals among whom was Georgie who set off in vain pursuit turning for home.

A nimble jump at the last and the race was over as Wildcatted hit the line six lengths to the good over Georgie (14/1). Drumlister one of the three 7/2 co favourites, finished third.

“He disappointed a few times, but he works well at home. The blinkers probably helped today,” handler Michael McDonagh explained.

“The ground is the key to him and he’ll be let off for the winter. I’ve 10 in training and I train in Sixmilebridge.”

Jockey Brian O’Connell added: “He took a bit of time to get the hang of things over hurdles. He’s done it well. He’s an improving type and he’s only four.

“Michael got it spot on putting the blinkers on as I was sceptical. He travelled and jumped well. He’ll win again. He looks on the upgrade.”

This was Wildcatted’s first win on his 10th attempt. He was sixth of 16 to Ancient Sands on his penultimate start in Ballinrobe before running 12th of 20 in a Gowran Park handicap hurdle on soft ground.

Brian O’Connell weighed in 1lb overweight on the winner.

Ireland now leads the jockeys challenge by 55-34. Sean Airgead one of the 7/2 co favourites of three, finished 12th of the 13 runners. The Turf Club Veterinary Officer reported to the Stewards that Sean Airgead trained by had a cut pastern post race, but was otherwise post race normal.

Jason Maguire, rider of Sean Airgead trained by Mark Michael McNiff, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount hung badly in running.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes