Ruler Of Dubai and Ryan Treacy© Photo Healy Racing
Ruler Of Dubai served up a 20/1 surprise in the Joe Rea Memorial Maiden Hurdle at Downpatrick.
Ryan Treacy conjured up a finish from the Dubai Destination gelding who jumped the last in third place.
The pair motored up the hill to head I Don't Get It (22/1) in the final 50 yards. The winning distance was a length. Recite A Prayer the even-money favourite, jumped better today but gave best in the final furlong as he came home third, beaten five and three quarter lengths by the winner.
Trainer Leslie Young said: "He was second here in a handicap so he handles here and he stays.
"With a rating of 89 you don't expect to win a maiden hurdle.
"He ran disappointingly the last day in Tipperary but the ground was very soft and heavy.
"We said we would give him a run here as I knew he would stay and he operates on the track. The lack of rain probably helped.
"Ryan is very strong in a finish.
"The other horse (Alexharwill) was second in the third race. At least it is nice to get one.
"He (Ruler Of Dubai) will probably go chasing later in the year."
The Stewards requested a report from L.Young, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Ruler Of Dubai, placed first, as compared with its recent form. L. Young stated that his charge had previous good runs at Tramore and Downpatrick. He added that he had found the ground too slow last time out and the better ground today had helped to bring about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation given.
