Volcano comes to life in Down Royal feature

The White Volcano sprang a 16/1 surprise in the feature at Down Royal, the Mount Charles Handicap Hurdle.

Trained in Co Armagh by John Woods, and ridden by Conor Maxwell, the son of September Storm won a point-to-point last October, but could only manage seventh on his handicap debut at Downpatrick on Friday last.

Carrying just nine stone ten this evening, he got to the front from three out, and stretched clear after the next, keeping on well under pressure on the run-in to score comfortably by five and a half lengths in the colours of owner/breeder Philip White. Lasoscar (8/1) finished second under Denis O'Regan for Liam Cusack, while Carrigready (14s to 8s) was another four and a half lengths back in third for Andrew Lynch and Vincent Halley. Lord In Red and Polar Present were sent off the 4/1 joint-favourites and they finished fourth and eighth respectively.

Woods said afterwards: "I suppose he was crying out for the ground and the trip. He won his point-to-point on good ground.

"Danny Hand couldn't do the weight, he would usually ride him. Conor (Maxwell) gave him a great ride.

"I was hopeful today. He stuck at it well. He has run some nice races over shorter trips.

"Hopefully he will be out soon, he wants a galloping track.

"The owner owns Philip White Tyres in Armagh and he has had horses with me a lifetime."

STEWARDS REPORTS

I.J. McCarthy, rider of Tourboy trained by Mark Fahey, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount stopped quickly and has respiratory issues.

The Stewards interviewed D.F. O'Regan, rider of Lasoscar, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards found D.F.O'Regan to be in Breach of Regulation 10.3(g) in that he used his whip with his arm above shoulder height. Having considered his record in this regard, the Stewards cautioned him with regard to his future responsibilities.

Additional reporting by Michael Graham