Booyea enjoys his first venture into handicap company Booyea showed plenty of engine on handicap debut at Gowran Park. The 22/1 shot was given a mark of 64 after three unplaced runs in maidens. He started to move powerfully into contention inside the final two furlongs and arrived into the lead over a furlong from home. The son of Galileo Gold wasn't for stopping at the end of the mile and drew three and three quarter lengths clear in the hands of Gavin Ryan. Hialeah (15/2) came home second from nicely-backed Givemefive (4/1). Each-way backers picked up a return from 25/1 Lucky Question. “The horses are going well and the yard is in form. After the filly won the other day (Drop The Drip) we were hoping this fella would run well,” said Tom Gibney. The Raceday Stewards enquired into an incident turning into the home straight involving Snowhaven, ridden by S. Foley, who fell, and Stepdance, ridden by J. Kearney where it appeared Snowhaven clipped a heel and came down. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. S. Foley stated that Stepdance shifted left into his path and he clipped a heel when J. Kearney used his whip. J. Kearney stated that his mount shifted slightly when he used his whip and that he was not aware that Snowhaven was there. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that J. Kearney, was in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly, and having considered his record in this regard the Raceday Stewards suspended J. Kearney for six race days. J. Kearney was accompanied by Mr. Jack Madden at this enquiry. Additional reporting by Gary Carson
