Swordsman carves out a clear-cut success

Swordsman responded well to first-time blinkers to decisively win the two and a half mile handicap hurdle in Killarney.

He was niggled along by Jordan Gainford to get his head in front approaching the home bend. The seven-year-old Doyen gelding led the field past the bypassed third last and really found plenty off the bridle as he moved clear at the next.

He was ridden to go and win his race before the last and, although it wasn't his best jump, he strode in by seven and a half lengths at 9/1 from 14s. Cusp Of Carabelli could make no impression in second at 12/1.

Rachael Blackmore was stood down for the rest of the day, awaiting further updates, after a fall from Merry Poppins at the fifth flight.

The IHRB tweeted an update from Dr. Richard Downey: “Rachael Blackmore is being taken to Tralee Hospital for further assessment on an upper leg injury following a fall in Race 4 at Killarney. She is fully conscious.”

Gainford said: “Denise’s (Foster) horses are in great form and he gave me a real good feel going to the start.

“He loved the ground and I was able to go down the inside where there is a lovely bit of fresh ground. He jumped well, really put his head down and galloped to the line.”

The Stewards requested a report from Mrs Denise Foster, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Swordsman, placed first, as compared with its recent runs at Wexford and Fairyhouse. Brian Flood, Authorised representative for Mrs Denise Foster reported that the previous two runs were disappointing but the application of blinkers for the first time today sharpened up their charge and this brought about the improved performance. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the content of the report.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee