Court Artist and Patrick Mullins© Photo Healy Racing
Willie Mullins completed a first and last race Kilbeggan double as Court Artist made light of a 316 day break in the Book Online For Discounts INH Flat Race.
It was easy for the earlier Closutton victor, Mystic Theatre under Paul Townend, but Court Artist had to work harder to gain the day under Patrick Mullins.
A daughter of Court Cave, the winner came together with a son of Court Cave, Court Tycoon in this two and a half miler, after the turn-in. Slippery Serpent was the one soon threatening danger but Court Artist was too strong inside the last for a five and a half length victory.
"That's fantastic. James Fenton, who is the head man of Blue Blood Racing, picked her out. She was their first horse so they've had a good bit of patience with her," reported the winning rider.
"She's a very light filly and I think the better ground is what turned her around. She has a good turn of foot and I think she could probably win on the Flat over a trip.
"I'm not sure if she'll go for a winners bumper or a maiden hurdle but I think she'll be able to go Flat and jumps. Ground is probably the key to her cause she's just very light."
Mr J.J. Codd, rider of Pancrace (FR) trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung throughout.
The Stewards enquired into an incident from the turn into the straight involving Court Tycoon, ridden by Mr R. Deegan, placed third and Court Artist, ridden by Mr P.W. Mullins, placed first.
Evidence was heard from the riders concerned.
Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards gave Mr.P.W.Mullins the benefit of the doubt but advised him to ride with more care in future.
(GC & EM)
