Ariahey and Ross Coakley deliver an upset in Bellewstown© Photo Healy Racing
It was outsiders all the way in Bellewstown’s mile and six handicap as Ariahey got up to pip Ginger Genie
Ross Coakley got a great tune out of 20/1 shot Ariahey who came with a wet sail in the final furlong to cut down Ginger Genie (16/1) by a head. Ginger Genie had attempted to make all and still looked the winner close home but was collared approaching the line. Byron Beauty the well-backed 15/8 favourite, had every chance when disputing the lead two and a half furlongs out but could find no more at the business end and was a length adrift of the battle for first place. Byron Beauty had been 4/1 this morning.
John Larkin said: “I gave up backing her. I don’t know why she never raised a gallop in Tipperary.
“Ross is riding horses for me three years. He’s the most enthusiastic kid. He’s very knowledgeable and is in a good school with Johnny Murtagh. You’d learn plenty in a week with Johnny. When they kicked four furlongs out he didn’t.”
The winner paid 54.20 euro on the Tote.
The Stewards requested a report from J.Larkin, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Ariahey (USA), winner, as compared with its most recent run at Tipperary on 26th June, where she finished last of 15 runners. The trainer reported that the filly had run well previous to Tipperary at Sligo on good ground, but at Tipperary the rain eased the ground to yielding, and he attributed any improvement in form to the better ground here today. Having considered the report, the Stewards noted the explanation offered.
The Stewards interviewed E.J. McNamara, rider of Ginger Genie, placed second, 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 were of the opinion E.J. McNamara was in breach of Regulation 10 3 (f) in that he had used his whip with excessive force and frequency, and having taken his record into account, they suspended him for 3 race days.
The Stewards interviewed K.P. Moriarty, rider of Byron Beauty, placed third, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned and from Mr H. Rogers, trainer representing T. Stack, trainer and master of K.P. Moriarty. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion the rider was in breach of Regulation 10 3 (f) in that he had used his whip with excessive frequency, and having taken his record and his experience into account, they cautioned him accordingly.
