New Society on the way to victory under Shane O'Callaghan© Photo Healy Racing
Division one of the www.fairyhouse.ie Maiden Hurdle saw Shane O’Callaghan partner his second winner when triumphant aboard the Keith Watson-trained New Society (an easy to back 14/1 shot).
Odds-on favourite Fangio De Vassy (4/5) was disappointing as Grand National history maker Rachael Blackmore returned to domestic action. Henry de Bromhead’s charge could manage no better than sixth.
Whilst runner-up Eat The Book (200s into 66s) caught the eye with his finishing effort he was never getting to New Society, already a three time Flat scorer. He prevailed by two and three parts of a length.
“I shouldn't have run him on the ground at Clonmel the last time as he's only 15-2, only a small horse, and he just got stuck in the ground,” said Watson’s son Marshall.
“We're hopeful now that he can progress into a nice summer horse going forward. He had some classy form in England for James Bethell.
“He only cost me a grand at the sales so I can't really complain too much about him. It'll keep mother happy anyway.
“He had so many problems when he came, kissing spines and joints, but he's turned into such a happy horse and I'm very happy going forward.
“Hopefully the handicapper just leaves me alone!”
At the request of the Stewards, C.P. McNamara, rider of Pour Pavore trained by Gavin Cromwell, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that the ground was on the quick side for his horse and as such was on his head for a good portion of the race so he held him together to get home. .
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Fangio De Vassy (FR), trained by Henry de Bromhead, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to have a small wound on it's right fore cannon.
(GC & EM)
