Futurum Regem (right) leads home his rivals under Wesley Joyce© Photo Healy Racing
Futurum Regem completed a 74/1 Bellewstown double for Wesley Joyce, as he claimed the second divide of the Smiths Of Drogheda Ford Classic Handicap.
A dual winner over flights, the Hugh Finnegan-trained eight-year-old was twice placed on the level last season and finished fifth on his return to action at Sligo in May.
Settled behind the leaders and fourth halfway, the 14/1 chance swept to the front with three-furlongs to go and proved game under pressure, eventually coming home three-and-a-quarter lengths to the good.
While Say It So (11/2) and the well-backed Macinamillion (5/6 favourite from 5/2 early) tried hard to reel the winner in, they ultimately had to settle for second and third respectively, with half-a-length between them at the line.
Joyce, who landed a valuable prize at the Curragh on Sunday, was earlier on the mark with Rathbranchurch in the fifth.
STEWARDS REPORTS
J.J.G. Ryan, rider of Dubai Clover trained by Ian Patrick Donoghue, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount never travelled.
S. Foley, rider of Say It So, trained by E. McNamara, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount hung left under pressure.
The Raceday Stewards enquired into an incident in the home straight on the first circuit involving Fire Coral (GB), ridden by R.P. Cleary, unplaced, and Rebel Ruler ridden by J.M. Sheridan, placed fifth, where it appeared J.M Sheridan had to take a slight check. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. J.M. Sheridan stated that he didn't give a shout and took back as he didn't have the horse to commit to the gap. R.P. Cleary stated that he wasn't aware of J.M. Sheridan on his inside but felt he left enough room down the rail. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.
N.M. Crosse, rider of Churchmouse trained by Luke Comer, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount lost its action and pulled up.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Churchmouse, trained by Luke Comer, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
