Leonard does his homework and it pays off

Goodnite Irina (5/2 2nd favourite) beat market-leader Admirality (2/1) in the Value Cabs Handicap at Down Royal.

Admirality was looking good up front from some way out but the Pat Martin-trained and Killian Leonard-ridden Goodnite Irina just wouldn't go away.

In the end the attractive daughter of Roderic O'Connor gained the day by a length and a quarter.

"I was watching the replay of Johnny's horse (Murtagh, Admirality) in Roscommon and I thought if I hassled him early enough he might lie down, and it proved that way," said Leonard.

"I sat second and I followed him into the race three out and got first run across the road. I knew when he (Admirality) kicked I would keep going really well. Mine stays seven (furlongs) really well.

"I knew I had him covered two down. She wasn't doing a whole lot when I got there but she's very genuine."

W.J. Lee, rider of Samuel Phelps (GB) trained by Madeleine Tylicki, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount pulled up lame.

C.D. Hayes, rider of Baby Power trained by Garry Caldwell, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount got a bump after a furlong.

(MG & EM)