Murphy and Ryan combine for win with well-backed Duke

Duke Of Waspington came out on top after an exciting conclusion to the first split of the BetVictor Handicap over an extended mile and a quarter at Dundalk.

The win for the Pat Murphy-trained and Gavin Ryan-ridden six-year-old was no surprise to those monitoring the market in advance, as he tumbled from an opening show of 9/1 into 11/2.

Favourite Spanish Dawn (9/4 into 15/8) came there with every chance but she eventually had to yield by a head.

There was two and a three parts of a length then to Fiannaiocht in third.

"We knew he had ability from his runs here last year. He just kind of lost his way during the summer on the turf. We couldn't really pinpoint what was wrong - we tried a few things with him at home. Lately he had been showing more at home," disclosed Murphy.

"I was a little bit disappointed with the last run, he was drawn wide and he got no cover and hung a bit in the straight. We seem to have got that sorted and he ran a more genuine race today. I don't think the race was run to suit him the last day.

"Gavin's claim helped, he is well worth his claim and he rides him out most weeks at home. He knows him well. Hopefully we have found the key to him and he'll be back here.

"The syndicate is run by Derek Leonard, he got the lads together. They are friends of mine who were involved in other horses. There are two fellows back from the Caribbean - one is a Welsh chap who flew over this morning. There are some Mayo men in it and a few from Galway as well.

"I have eight horses in at the minute, including young horses, and plenty of room for more!"

J.M. Moore, rider of Alhajjaj (GB) trained by Anthony McCann, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount's saddle slipped.

The Stewards enquired into the apparent improvement in form of Duke Of Waspington, trained by P.J.F. Murphy, placed first, compared with its recent form.

Evidence was heard from IHRB Handicapper, Mr. G. O'Gorman, who stated that this horse had been rated as high as 66 on one stage but had slipped to 56 tonight, he had run very well last season but had run poorly last twice and had appeared to have lost form in recent times.

He also gave evidence regarding the betting patterns for this horse.

Evidence was also heard from the trainer concerned who stated that this horse had been disappointing on turf, prior to returning to the all-weather where he ran poorly.

Subsequent to that, the horse was discovered to have had a drop in his foot. This was successfully treated.

The horse was also treated by a physio for a shoulder issue, as he had been hanging at home.

He was also looked at by an equine dentist who advised the use of a rubber bit and he seemed to work better in it at home. He felt the horse had a place chance tonight, especially with Feisty Katerina (USA) becoming a non-runner.

Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation.

(MG & EM)