Clondaw Frisby and Mark O'Hare© Photo Healy Racing
"He's not that big but he jumps fantastic and is in great form," said trainer Jerry Cosgrave after his Clondaw Frisby fended off Jammin Masters to land the Boardsmill Sires Maiden Hunters Chase at Downpatrick.
Jammin Masters headed the betting but try as his rider Michael Stenson might, he couldn't bridge the gap to Clondaw Frisby up the run-in, and two lengths split them at the line.
Cosgrave added on the Mark O'Hare-ridden victor: "He loved that ground. Probably his best run was his first run in Down Royal when three Grade Ones beat him - I think he was beaten 12 lengths by Foxrock. It was all Grade Ones in front of him that day.
"He gives you everything and is a good wee horse. The owners just love him - they are from Ballynahinch, Dromore beside me, and Ray Nicholls the bookmaker from Belfast. One of the owners bred Native River.
"We'll probably have to go for a hunters chase somewhere. He could go to Punchestown if there is something. Maybe even for the Ladies' Cup."
Mr G.M. Mangan, rider of Blue Templar trained by E. Bolger, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount hung and stopped quickly.
The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Blue Templar, trained by E. Bolger, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
Mr S. Clements, rider of Equal Status trained by E. Bolger, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount burst a blood vessel which was confirmed by the Turf Club Veterinary Officer.
The Stewards interviewed Ms. Joy Wilson, authorised representative for Liam Lennon, trainer of Howwouldsheno regarding the failure of the horse to enter the parade ring which resulted in Howwouldsheno being withdrawn by order of the Stewards.
Evidence was heard from Ms. Wilson, who explained that the girth had broken in the stable yard while saddling and caused the delay. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards found that the trainer was in breach of Rule 32 and fined him €200 through his representative.
(MG & EM)
