It all seems so easy for Barry Geraghty and Face Facts as they pass the line!© Photo Healy Racing
Barry Geraghty completed a treble at Cork today, achieving the feat on the Prunella Dobbs trained Face Facts winner of the extraordinary Cork Handicap Hurdle, in a race which changed dramatically in the straight.
The former Champion Jockey has ridden many trebles in his career, some of which he might not recall, but will certainly file today's hat-trick in the 'fond memories' section whenever he retires.
Face Facts was under pressure in tenth, with only one straggler behind, turning into the straight and even at the second last flight, was a poor eighth. However things changed dramatically at that obstacle as tiring clear leader Craigs Dream (who had a huge lead for most of the race) fell. Two In A Row was left in front at this point but was hampered by Craig's Dream, causing jockey Tony Kelly to be unseated. New leader Bangonform (under Davy Russell, who was chasing a treble of his own) was then presented with his winning chance but in the end failed to take his opportunity.
At the final flight, Face Facts was only fourth, but stormed home on the run-in to head both Bangonform (eventually finished fourth) and Mark Me Up close home, for a half length win.
After the win, trainer Dobbs stated “turning in for home I thought we had no chance and even after the second last, Barry (Geraghty) said that he still needed to wing the final fence to have a chance!
“I thought all the way round today that the ground wasn't totally to his liking but he is such a brave horse and battled so well on the run-in. He went up quite a bit for his last win and I wasn't sure he 'd cope with the extra weight; we'll keep him going as long as the ground isn't heavy.”
