Clueless Hill and Chris Hayes, right, beat stablemate Dr Patrick and Wayne Lordan, left © Photo Healy Racing
In-form owner/trainer Luke Comer enjoyed a one-two in the first division of the extended mile and a quarter handicap at Dundalk. Clueless Hill (14/1) improved to challenge his stablemate inside the final furlong and soon grabbed a narrow initiative.
He was driven out by Chris Hayes to defeat the 11/10 favourite by a neck. Here's Hoping gave his each-way backers a place dividend in third at 18/1.
“The two of them work together at home and there is very little between them,” said assistant trainer Jim Gorman.
“Dr Patrick had run so well last week that obviously he was made favourite by the punters but there is nothing between them and it showed. All our horses run on their merits.
“They are in great form, they are all running well, and we'll cherish a time like this when all the horses are in such good form.”
The Stewards requested a report from Luke Comer, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Clueless Hill, placed first, as compared with its recent form. Jim Gorman, Authorised Representative for the trainer concerned stated that the application of first time blinkers and a liking for the surface coupled with the yard being in form had helped to bring about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation given.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
