Jack Slade wins controversial handicap hurdle

There was drama right from the off in division two of the Shelbourne FC Race Day Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse with Jack Slade only confirmed the winner following a stewards enquiry as two horses were left at the start. Ballygill Princess (8/1) and Gabriel Brandy (20/1) were both facing the wrong way as the starter Joe Banahan sent the 15-runner field on their way in this 2m4f event.

Jack Slade, the 9/2 joint favourite, travelled well to challenge in the straight, and found enough for Sean Flanagan on the run-in to beat Goldflinch by half a length with Shabra’s Bertolini in third.

At the subsequent enquiry evidence was heard from the riders involved, Mikey Fogarty and Brien Kane, as well as Banahan who was satisfied that the start was fair.

The stewards were satisfied that no starter error had occurred and took no further action.

Winning trainer Noel Meade said, “He was going well when he fell in the north, and probably didn’t stay the last day in Navan. The flatter track here suited him, although he doesn’t want to be in front too long. He should make a lovely chaser next summer.”

The No Rush Man Syndicate are from Clogherhead and enjoyed success before with the Meade-trained Dylan Ross.