O'Neill & Halley strike with Ballymacaw

The John Halley trained Ballymacaw made virtually all to land the Summer Party Pack Discount Group Booking INH Flat Race.

Third and fourth in two point-to-point starts at Dromahane in April, the son of Stowaway ran a fine race to finish second on his track debut at Punchestown last month.

Sent off at 7/2 this evening, he held a narrow lead in the early stages, before establishing a more definite advantage with over a circuit to go.

He was joined by Global Society with two furlongs to race and a good scrap ensued, with Ballymacaw getting on top in the closing stages, going on to prevail by two lengths.

Global Society, who was returned the 5/4 favourite, had to settle for second under Patrick Mullins for Gordon Elliott, while Hollow Sound (14/1) was another length and a half back in third.

The well-backed Even Flight (20s this morning and from 4s to 9/4 on-course) finished fourth but was later awarded third, after he was badly hampered by Hollow Sound close home.

O'Neill said afterwards: "He had a great run the last day and he is still a big baby and is very very immature.

"Even today I didn't want to be in front but there was no pace and after passing the winning post first time around he was having a good look around.

"He is a baby, will step up again and had loads left at the line. Jumping is his game and it will give him something to keep his mind on."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Stewards enquired into possible interference in the closing stages involving Even Flight (FR), ridden by Mr E.P. O'Brien, placed fourth and Hollow Sound, ridden by Mr D.T. Kelly, placed third, where it appeared Hollow Sound drifted off the rail. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Hollow Sound had caused interference to Even Flight(Fr) and in doing so had improved his finishing position in relation to Even Flight(Fr). The Stewards therefore reversed the Judge's placings of the both horses. Furthermore, the Stewards were of the opinion that Mr, D.T. Kelly was in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly and having considered his record, they suspended him for 2 racedays .

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes