Further Bellewstown gains for Elliott and Gilligan The opening split of the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle saw both Gordon Elliott and Danny Gilligan get their names on the Bellewstown scoresheet for the second occasion on the evening as Lucky Storm gained the day. The victorious Lucky Speed mare (14s - 16s -11s) didn't go completely unsupported, and her connections and backers were on good terms with themselves as she put her stamp on the extended two and a half miler from two out. Gilligan won the feature earlier for Katy Brown on Petrol Head, whilst Elliott bagged the opener through the Sam Ewing partnered Little Trilby. Here Lucky Storm eventually did the needful for the trainer and jockey, by two and three parts of a length from On My Bike. Cullentra House assistant Lisa O'Neill reflected afterwards: "A really good performance by her. "She's a lovely mare and is probably after dropping down a few pounds in the handicap which has helped her as well. "The step up in trip definitely played to her advantage. "Danny gave her a positive ride, he jumped out in front and never got hassled at the front end and he dictated his own fractions. That maybe suited her. He gave her a peach. "Brilliant result for the owners - unfortunately, they are not here today but it is fantastic for them and hopefully she can build on that." The Raceday Stewards enquired into an incident on the first bend on the first circuit involving Benz, ridden by Daire James McConville, unplaced, Boskill Borden, ridden by Cian Cullinan, placed fourth, The Mass Path, ridden by P. Byrnes, placed sixth, and Moneynabane, ridden by C. Stone-Walsh, unplaced, where it appeared several horses got tight for room rounding the bend. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Daire James McConville stated that he felt pressure from his outside, had to take a check and clipped a heel. Cian Cullinan stated that he felt pressure from his outside. P. Byrnes stated that he felt pressure from his outside. C. Stone-Walsh stated that he felt he was clear of the incident at the time. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards did not apportion blame to any rider and took no further action. (MG & EM)
