Courtncatcher gets over the last under Conor Brassil© Photo Healy Racing
Courtncatcher recorded his first win over fences, as he took the opener at Leopardstown, the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Chase.
Ownend and trained in Co Waterford by Patrick Duffy, the six time hurdles winner was sent off a 12/1 chance today, after finishing second on his last start at Thurles.
Settled behind the leaders by Conor Brassil, the nine-year-old victor was slightly hampered by the loose horse before the second last.
He then came with his challenge on the outer as they turned in to the straight, hitting the front before the last, keeping on well on the run-in, going on to score by two and a half lengths. Thomond finished second at 20/1 for Noel Meade, while Dallas Cowboy was another length and a half back in third under Donagh Meyler for Tony Martin at 10/1. Katnap who was making his debut for Joseph O'Brien, was the gamble of the race. Available at 8/1 in a place last night, that price was quickly snapped up, and he eventually went off the 5/2 favourite.
In rear for most of the contest, the nine-year-old gelding never looked like winning, and finished a disappointing eighth.
Duffy said afterwards: "He's been running very well but not clicking. He ran well in Cork in the National but maybe didn't get home.
"I've only the one horse so I'm up against it.
"I'm over 80 and I ride him everyday. I ride fast work and all. Nobody else rides him but me.
"I'm based in Villerstown. John (Kiely) and myself are great friends.
"The ground suited him today but he'll go on soft too. He jumped super."
STEWARDS REPORT
The Stewards received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer that Futuramic trained by Andrew Lynch was withdrawn at the start due to burst blood vessels. On further veterinary examination the horse was also found to be clinically abnormal. Samples were taken for analysis.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
