O'Grady pleased to bag feature ahead of 'very quiet winter'

"I think horse and owner (the Mullacrock Partnership) gets honours for perseverance, and maybe trainer," said successful handler Edward O'Grady after watching Time For Mabel (16s into 12s) landed the featured www.grahamnorris.com Memorial Handicap Hurdle at Clonmel.

Paul Townend did the steering on the French-bred chestnut, and after an exciting conclusion Time For Mabel upstaged Biddy The Boss (4/1 joint favourite) and Naturally Blond (9/2) by a length and a neck.

"Obviously three miles was a shot in the dark and the ground seemed to come up for him today - we think he has ability but keeps a bit to himself," elaborated O'Grady.

"It was uncompetitive which helped him but it was nice to win and he did it nicely. I hope he will jump a fence in time too.

"The few horses that are there (in the yard) are running well but I'm afraid we'll be very quiet for the winter. I have no good horse and the ones I have seem to want good ground.

"I'll have about 30 maximum but that would include my own fillies like Bouquet Garni and others.

"There are some nice babies there - I just hope we live long enough to see them!"

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Presentingprincess trained by Mrs D.A.Love, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be lame on her right hind post race.

The Stewards requested a report from E. J. O'Grady, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Time For Mabel (FR), placed first, as compared with its recent form. Mr. O'Grady reported that his charge appeared to appreciate today's more favourable ground conditions and felt this had helped to bring about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the report, the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

(TW & EM)