Keane delivers Nero with well-timed run again

Colin Keane got a good tune from Finding Nero inside the final furlong to claimed the Sean Graham Bookmakers Handicap at Down Royal. Cuban Surfer had kicked for home three furlongs out in the ten furlong handicap but was strongly pressed by Johnny Murtagh's charge in the closing stages.

The 4/1 favourite got his head in front in the final 100 yards and kept on well for a three-parts-of-a length success.

Finding Nero was recording back-to-back wins having scored on his return at Gowran Park earlier in the month.

Murtagh said: "I was worried when I saw him drawn so wide but Colin said he improved from the last day and he is a slow-maturing horse.

"We are delighted that he has won two in a row. John and Valerie Osborne (owners) are good friends of ours and we bred this fella as well so it is extra special and we have the mare at home. All going well.

"He looks like he would get a mile and a half today when he was getting on top close home but I think that is a good trip for him.

"We'll see what the handicapper does and we'll keep him going as he is improving."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)