Shark Bay and Jungle Cove come close© Photo Healy Racing
Shark Bay just got the better of Jungle Cove late on, and survived a stewards enquiry, to secure a narrow victory in the conditions race at Gowran Park this afternoon.
The Ballydoyle colt came off the bridle turning for home in the nine-and-a-half furlong contest but stuck to his guns well for Wayne Lordan.
Jungle Cove travelled best early in the straight and hit the lead a furlong-and-a-half out under young Dylan Kidd.
He was soon pressed by Shark Bay, however, and it was the Aidan O'Brien-trained colt who found a bit more close home to gain a head victory.
The winner did drift left in the closing stages, and give his rival a bump, but the stewards left the result unchanged after an enquiry.
The 11/10 favourite was following up on another hard fought victory at Killarney 12 days ago.
Chris Armstrong, stable representative, said afterwards:- “He’s as honest as the day is long. The trip was probably a little bit on the short side for him and the ground was as quick as he would want it.
“At declaration stage we thought we’d give him another go at this. He’s progressed all the time and would appreciate a step up in trip again.”
(Quotes by Alan Magee)
