Heffernan making up for lost time and bags Leopardstown Group Three Seamie Heffernan continues to make up for lost time after quarantining and suspension, adding to a Gowran brace yesterday with success in the Group Three Clipper Logistics Desmond Stakes at Leopardstown aboard Royal Dornoch. With the Ballydoyle 12/1 shot not getting a clear run in the final quarter mile it looked a forlorn hope for Heffernan here. However with favourite and pace-setter Ancient Spirit hanging right in the final furlong Royal Dornoch (first time tongue strap on) seized his opportunity on the inner when the chance presented itself. The successful Gleneagles colt got there by a neck from Ancient Spirit with Bowerman a length and a half back in third. “He's a Group 2 winner. He's been a little bit disappointing but he's been running in top notch races,” said Heffernan. “I rode him to run well and it might be just the way to ride him.” W.J. Lee, rider of Trais Fluors (GB) trained by K.J. Condon, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung right in the straight. The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Fiscal Rules, trained by J. S. Bolger, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal. The Stewards requested a report from A.P.O'Brien, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Royal Dornoch, placed first, as compared with his two earlier runs in Group 1 company. The trainer's representative Mr. Pat Keating reported that a drop in class, being freshened up since his last run at Royal Ascot and a truly run race all contributed to his improved performance. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered. S. Foley, rider of Ancient Spirit (GER), trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount hung. (GC & EM)
