Unlucky Champ can't catch Mist

On start two for 'Dusty' Sheehy Grey Mountain Mist gained a second career win at the age of ten when just holding on in the Events Arena At Breaffy Handicap Hurdle at Ballinrobe.

Davy Russell was bidding for a treble here aboard top-weight Lizzies Champ the 3/1 favourite.

He almost turned certain defeat into victory when conjuring up a great late rattle from his mount, but the Paul Townend-ridden Grey Mountain Mist got the verdict by a head.

There was just a neck back to Granny Biddy in third.

Pat Kelly trainer, and Thomas Kelly owner, were supplying a second runner up in as many races as Dawn Raider took the silver medal in the 6.20.

They can consider themselves unlucky here as Lizzies Champ had a troubled run away from the final flight.

Sheehy, who was on lead-up duties, said afterwards: "He is in again at Downpatrick on Friday and all going well he will run there. He is a hardy horse, and he doesn't kill himself so he'll probably go to Downpatrick."

G.N. Fox, rider of Sunset Flow trained by Francis J. Flood, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount finished lame.

D.J. Mullins, rider of Carrow Queen trained by V. T. O'Brien, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount never travelled.

R.P. Treacy, rider of Just Go trained by V. T. O'Brien, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount never travelled.

The Stewards interviewed M.F. Mooney, rider of Glasson Lad concerning his use of the whip in this race.

Evidence was heard from the rider concerned.

Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3(g), in that he used the whip with his arm above shoulder height and having considered his record, cautioned him concerning his future responsibilities in this regard.

(DM & EM)