Miss Eyecatcher (left) and Barry John Foley© Photo Healy Racing
Offers of as big as 10/1 early quickly disappeared and Miss Eyecatcher justified the faith of those that sent her off the 3/1 favourite when victorious in the Springtime In Wexford Maiden Hurdle. Getaway Kid also had his backers (14s into 8s) but he looked a bit green when hitting the front in the straight.
Miss Eyecatcher, a three time bumper winner and with plenty of experience in point-to-points and over flights already, showed that know how in the closing stages to gain the day by a neck.
Barry John Foley rode Miss Eyecatcher for the Connery Family Syndicate and trainer Roger McGrath.
McGrath was on lead-up duties and it was left to Padraig Connery, member of the winning syndicate, to say: "We will see what is available for her now at Punchestown and Fairyhouse."
The Stewards enquired into an incident before the turn into the straight involving Getaway Kid, ridden by G.N. Fox, Political Theatre ridden by D. Meyler, Nanny Stone ridden by J.W. Kennedy, and White Lilac ridden by D. Robinson, where it appeared that White Lilac ran out of racing room.
Evidence was heard from the riders concerned.
Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that the incident was accidental and took no further action.
T.J. Taaffe, trainer of Nanny Stone, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his charge lost a hind shoe and displaced another in running.
(DM & EM)
