McConnell finds the key with Maricruz

Track maintenance saw the www.countysligoraces.com Apprentice Handicap go off eight minutes late and after saddling the runner-up in the opener, trainer John McConnell went a place better in race two at Cleveragh with Maricruz Mistiness (8/1 - 10 Cent Rule 4) was the subject of good market support here, but he had to be withdrawn after refusing to go into the stalls.

Ultimately Maricruz benefited from a patient Shane Crosse steer, leading over a furlong out before comfortably accounting for Ace Of Diamonds by three and a half lengths.

The successful grey was equipped with a first-time tongue-strap and McConnell explained: "She has ability but has been a little fussy. The hood wasn't working so we left it off and decided to put a tongue strap on her. It's helped at home and she won well there.

"She'd been running on rock hard ground and was probably feeling it so the slight ease in the ground here was a help.

"In time she might make a juvenile hurdler as her mum, Miss Fancy Pants, was favourite for the GPT one year and was Graded placed over hurdles for Noel Meade."

The Stewards informed Keith Henry Clarke, trainer that Mistiness, would have to be recertified before being declared to run from stalls again.

The Stewards requested a report from John C. McConnell, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Maricruz, placed first, as compared with its recent form.

John C. McConnell reported that there were a combination of factors that contributed to the improved performance.

Tonight the filly wore a tongue strap and but did not wear a hood as previously and furthermore there was an ease in the ground which suited her.

He added that the filly has her own ways of doing things and needs everything to go right to perform to her best.

Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the content of the report.

The Stewards enquired into an incident after crossing the road at the two furlong marker involving Sharjah ridden by A.J. Slattery, placed third, Storm Ranger ridden by B.M. Coen, placed fourth and Singing'n'dancing ridden by G.M. Ryan, unplaced, where it appeared that Singing'n'dancing was tightened while racing close to the running rail.

Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Andrew Slattery, trainer, accompanied A.J. Slattery and B.M. Coen at this enquiry.

Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that any interference caused was accidental in nature and took no further action.

A.J. Slattery, rider of Sharjah trained by Andrew Slattery, reported to the Clerk of Scales that he dropped his right rein on the turn into the straight.

G.M. Ryan, rider of Singing'n'dancing trained by J. S. Bolger, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount ran short of room before the turn into the straight.

(AM & EM)