Rex completes O'Brien double Aidan and Joseph O'Brien, on the mark in the opening event with Archangel Raphael, signed off at Galway on Monday by doubling up in the concluding Sean Cleary Memorial Maiden with 4/1 newcomer Vivat Rex. Much like Archangel Rapheal, Vivat Rex, a son of Fastnet Rock, equipped with blinkers, found a turn of pace that his rivals couldn't match in the closing stages as he prevailed by two and a quarter lengths from Ger Lyons' Thunder Zone (had made a lot of the running). Ashbury Boss, squeezed for room inside the last, was a further three parts of a length back in third. Meanwhile well-backed favourite Wrap Star (7/4) had every chance but he eventually had to settle for fourth. "He was lazy and green. They went a nice gallop and the race worked out well. He is a grand horse with a good attitude. Hopefully the handicapper won't be too hard on him," said Joseph afterwards. The Stewards enquired into an incident on the final bend involving Asbury Boss, ridden by S. Foley, placed third, Vivat Rex, ridden by J.P. O'Brien, placed first and Lettre De Cachet (GB), ridden by C.D. Hayes, placed fifth, where it appeared that Lettre De Cachet (GB) met with interference. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards did not apportion blame to any rider and took no further action. The Stewards enquired into an incident about 150 yards from the finish involving Asbury Boss, ridden by S. Foley, placed third, Vivat Rex, ridden by J.P. O'Brien, placed first and Wrap Star, ridden by D.P. McDonogh, placed fourth, where it appeared that Asbury Boss ran short of room and checked. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards did not apportion blame to any rider and took no further action. (DM & EM)
