Mick Charlie justifies early support despite late market drift

Despite a late market drift, Mick Charlie justified plenty of early market support in the Download The App At Novibet Handicap Hurdle.

Available at 33/1 in early shows for this three-mile contest, the Declan Queally-trained 11-year-old went as short as 3/1, before drifting near the off to a starting price of 13/2.

Settled towards rear by Ray Barron, who was also on the mark at Tipperary yesterday, the Mr Dinos bay made progress from five out and went second on the approach to the straight.

Ridden to the front on the approach to the last, he could afford to be eased down in the closing stages, seeing off the late effort Ballylangan by a length-and-a-quarter.

The runner-up was returned at 20/1, while the front-running Croi Corcra (5/1 from 20s early) was another three-lengths back in third.

Returned the 7/2 favourite, Tango Theatre could only a manage sixth.

"He got a leg two years ago and it took a bit of time to get him back. The Coughlan's have been very patient with him and the handicapper gave him a small chance," Queally reflected.

"It took him time to find his feet, he was ring rusty, but I've been happy the way he's been working the last few weeks and he's done it well.

"He's nearly 12 and anything is a bonus with him now."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Raceday Stewards requested a report from Declan Queally, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Mick Charlie, placed 1st, as compared with its recent form. Mr Queally reported that this horse had been off the track for over two years prior to its most recent runs. He reported his charge was a big, raw horse that improved considerably for these runs and this may have brought about any apparent improvement in form. Having considered the report the Raceday Stewards noted its contents.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee