Bobsfirth (left) is ridden out by Derek O'Connor to beat Kilbarry Way and Jamie Codd© Photo Healy Racing
Bobsfirth sprang a 16/1 surprise in the Sea Lodge Waterville (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race, with the 3/10 favourite Yukon Lil only managing a disappointing third.
A decent fifth on his third start at Listowel in June, the Hillary McLoughlin trained victor slipped up on his most recent outing at Cork when still in contention.
Available at 33/1 in early shows, the son of Flemensfirth was settled behind the leaders by Derek O'Connor, and was pushed along to challenge in second from the three furlong pole.
He had a good battle with Kilbarry Way inside the final furlong, getting on top close home to prevail by a head.
The runner-up was returned at 4/1 under Jamie Codd for Con O'Keeffe, while the aforementioned Yukon Lil was another three and a quarter lengths back in third.
McLoughlin said afterwards: "I bought him to sell him initially and we really liked him but he disappointed as a four and five-year-old as he was weak.
"I thought today's race would cut up to only a few winners but we couldn't see Willie Mullins' (Yukon Lil) being beaten really but said we'd give it a shot.
"I'm delighted and we can still go for a winners of one and might do that or sell him. We have options now whereas last year I was pulling my hair out with him!"
STEWARDS REPORT
The Stewards interviewed Mr J.J. Codd, rider of Kilbarry Way, 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 of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3(f) in that he had used his whip with excessive frequency. Having taken his previous record in this regard into account, the Stewards suspended Mr. J.J. Codd for 2 racedays.
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
