Rampage lunges late under Ryan to deny Gunner at death

The Tom McCourt trained Rampage recorded a third career success when getting up right on the line under James Ryan to deny Thompson Gunner in Division l the Irishinjuredjockeys.com Handicap at Dundalk.

Thompson Gunner, who had finished third under Ryan over course and distance last Friday, looked to have the race at his mercy when surging to the lead over a furlong out.

Adam Caffrey, seeking a treble on the night, kicked on inside the final furlong but was joined by the fast finishing 10/1 chance close home.

The judge had to call for a photo before eventually concluding that Rampage had got up to win by a nose.

Tom McCourt said: “James had the choice between him and Thompson Gunner and I told him to ride whatever one he wanted. He just about got it right!

“It's been a little bit disappointing this year that we didn't get a win with him. I thought his coat had gone a little bit on us in the last couple of weeks and I just wasn't sure where we were with him.

“He battled it out well. They can lead you astray a little bit at this time of year because it's getting colder and some of them start to coat a bit quicker than others.

“I'd love to go to Bellewstown with him, as local lads own most of him, but with a penalty it probably wouldn't be the right thing.

“His first run here was a real good run, when fourth, and he didn't run bad the next time either. I'd say as long as he's in form we'll tip away.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson.