Murphy's Think Big off the mark on 3rd start

Think Big (7/2 out to 9/2) had to survive a steward’s enquiry before being confirmed the winner of the Magners Welcome To Ciderland Race (Plus 10 Race) at Down Royal.

The John Murphy-trained and Robbie Colgan-ridden Fairyhouse second placer was getting the upper hand on Millisle (4/6 into 1/2) when hanging in on that rival inside the final furlong.

A length and a quarter split them in the end and it was no surprise when the no alteration announcement was made.

Trainer's son and assistant George Murphy said: "There's no doubt he is a very, very good horse. He was just actually a bit green there when he did hit the front and he leaned in a little bit. The best horse won on the day.

"We'll probably look for a bit of black type with him now - he is in some good races [including the Group One Phoenix Stakes] and we will see how he comes out of this.

"We'll make a plan going onwards, but we think he is very smart anyway.

"We are thinking of some big races with him as he has progressed with every run. We weren't overly hard on him and he has come on nicely.

"Robbie (Colgan) just said that he was just a little bit green in front and he said that he has loads of class and loads of speed and that he loved him. He's just improving every time he goes out.

"I think six (furlongs) would be no bother at all to him."

S. Foley, rider of Millisle trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was badly intimidated inside the final furlong.

The Stewards enquired into possible interference about 200 yards from the finish involving Millisle, ridden by S. Foley, placed second, Think Big, ridden by R.C. Colgan, placed first and True Motion ridden by W.M. Lordan, placed fourth, where it appeared that True Motion ran short of room when racing between horses. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards made no alteration to the Judges placings and took no further action.

The Stewards enquired into possible interference inside the final 75 yards involving Millisle, ridden by S. Foley, placed second and Think Big, ridden by R.C. Colgan, placed first, where it appeared that Millisle ran short of room when racing close to the running rail and checked. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards made no alteration to the Judges placings and took no further action.

(MG & EM)