Jan Wellens, right, swoops in the closing stages© Photo Healy Racing
Jan Wellens brought up a Roscommon double for Ger Lyons with a last-gasp success in the Tulsk Handicap.
The second reserve got into this extended mile and a quarter race and was partnered by Ronan Whelan.
The Dutch Art gelding made sustained headway in the final furlong to catch Dazzling Darren (2/1f) in the final strides and score by a neck at 6/1.
This was the second time in a week at this venue that Dazzling Darren had been just chinned as he lost out by a nose last Monday. Little Brother finished third at 7/2, three lengths off the battle for first place.
Assistant trainer Shane Lyons said: “He’s a fine stamp of a horse and could turn into a jumper. He loved that ground. We could step him up in trip anytime we want but that trip is ideal for him at this stage of his life.
“Ronan thought he could have won a bit cosier if he had a little more luck. He’s only learning the job and hopefully there is another one or two before he’s on his way.
“Every time he gave him a slap he kept finding. He’s that type of horse, a laidback character and only does enough.”
The Lyons team also scored with Frank Arthur in race three (ridden by Colin Keane).
The Stewards interviewed C.D. Maxwell, rider of Dazzling Darren, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that C.D. Maxwell was in breach of Regulation 10.3 (g), in that he used his whip with excessive frequency and having considered his record in this regard suspended him for two race days.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
