Call Of The Loon and David Mullins© Photo Healy Racing
His half-brother Touch Of Oscar finished second in the opener on the card and Call Of The Loon (20/1 — 25/1 — 20/1) went a place better in race four at Kilbeggan, the Mullingar Handicap Hurdle.
Galway trainer David Ryan sent out his first winner on the racecourse proper since October 2012 when Call Of The Loon sluiced up in the extended three miler under David Mullins.
Brother of jockey Tom Ryan, and father to talented young Flat rider Rossa (rides in the 2,000 Guineas in Italy on Sunday), the Tuam based handler was understandably pleased with Call Of The Loon’s six and a half length victory over Humps And Bumps
“He’s impossible to train as he’s ground dependent, accident prone and if there is anything wrong at all he just won’t turn up," said Ryan.
“It all came together this evening and it was the same when he won his point-to-point. That’s why he hasn’t had too many runs but when everything is right he’s not too bad a horse.
“I told everyone this evening that I couldn’t see him get beat but nobody would believe me.”
The Stewards requested a report from D.J.Ryan, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Call Of The Loon, placed first, as compared with its last run. D.J. Ryan reported that his charge's last run followed a long absence and was on heavy ground, which did not suit on that occasion. In his opinion, this evenings ground suited his charge better and explained the improvement in form. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered.
At the request of the Stewards, D.F. O'Regan, rider of Amadeus trained by Gavin Cromwell, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount didn't travel.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Amadeus, trained by Gavin Cromwell, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
(AM & EM)
