Impact Factor and Sean O'Keeffe© Photo Healy Racing
Off a 576 day break Impact Factor struck for Jessica Harrington under Sean O’Keeffe in the Grade B EasyFix Equine Handicap Chase at Fairyhouse.
Not seen since finishing second at the Punchestown festival in May 2019, the 11/1 victor tracked the leader in second here.
The Robcour-owned Flemensfirth gelding improved to lead after three out, and he was pushed along from two out.
Clear at the last, Impact Factor was ridden and stayed on well on the run-in, comfortably beating Bel Ami De Sivola by nine lengths.
“That was a pleasant surprise. We always thought he was good as a novice but he had a little injury and missed last year,” said Kate Harrington, representing her mother.
“We’ve done plenty of slow work with him but not really pressed any buttons. He was magic and jumped from fence to fence.
“There should be plenty of improvement there and where we go next I’m not sure. I’ll let mum and Brian (Acheson, owner) have a chat about that. He was class.”
At the request of the Stewards, Rachael Blackmore, rider of Paloma Blue trained by Henry de Bromhead, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that her mount made a bad mistake five from home, but was not travelling at the time.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Paloma Blue, trained by Henry de Bromhead, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be coughing post race.
The Stewards interviewed M.P. O'Connor, rider of Game Of War 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 M.P.O'Connor was in breach of Regulation 10.3(g)(frequency) and having considered his record they cautioned him on this occasion.
(AM & EM)
