Sirjack Thomas (grey) wins under Cian MacRedmond© Photo Healy Racing
Sirjack Thomas (25/1) came to the fore in good style to win the Dubai Duty Free Handicap at the Curragh for Ado McGuinness and Cian MacRedmond.
In the familiar Dooley Thoroughbreds black and red, MacRedmond held his mount up in mid-division, before making progress in sixth two furlongs out.
Ridden into fourth a furlong and a half out, the successful grey led a furlong out, keeping on well in the final furlong to defeat Dream Tale by half a length.
“He was a little in and out and a bit disappointing a few times but we felt there was a good pot in him,” said McGuinness.
“He won in Galway last year and will go back to Galway. I didn’t think he’d be high enough to get into the Galway Mile but he’ll get in now. Fingers crossed he might do it again.
“Cian was very good on him and his 7lb is very valuable. I don’t know how many he has left but we’re going to have to hold onto it until Galway. He’s very cool and has really improved since he came into the yard.”
S. Foley, rider of Bopedro (FR) trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Clerk of Scales that he had to check off heels 2 furlongs out.
The Stewards enquired into an incident in the straight involving Bopedro (FR), ridden by S. Foley, placed third, Alhaazm (GB), ridden by C.D. Hayes, unplaced, and Blue For You ridden by O.J. Orr, unplaced, where it appeared Alhaazm had to check. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. S. Foley stated that Blue For You edged left into a gap he was going for which caused his horse to drift left onto Alhaazm. C.D. Hayes stated that he received pressure from his inside but felt it didn't affect his placing. O.J. Orr stated that his mount was running around but he did his best to keep him straight. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards took no further action.
(AM & EM)
