Stuzzikini jumps the last under Jack Kennedy© Photo Healy Racing
The testing conditions were exemplified in the Clonmel Oil Service Station Handicap Hurdle, with just five of the 11 runners managing to complete the course. Stuzzikini clearly relished the heavy ground though, as he powered to a 31-length victory, completing a double for Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy.
Second on recent starts at Punchestown and Galway respectively, the five-year-old was sent off a 9/2 chance (6s early) this afternoon.
Given a patient ride, the Champs Elysees bay made good headway before three out and was ridden to the front approaching the next, where he wasn't fluent.
A fine leap at the last sealed the deal for the 126-rated victor, with nearest pursuer Missiee crashing out there when beaten in second.
Kim Muir winner Angels Dawn (7/1) ran a fine race on her return to action, filling the runner-up spot under Phillip Enright, while Whatsavailable (6/1) was a further 15-lengths away in third.
Sent off the 11/4 favourite, Castle Field Boy disappointingly pulled up before two out.
"To be honest I was always happy," Kennedy reflected.
"I got there plenty soon on him as he can pull up in front but there was nothing to bring me along any further.
"I thought he loved that ground and hopefully he can keep going the right way."
Elliott & Kennedy earlier claimed the opener with Farren Glory
STEWARDS REPORTS
P.K. Donovan, rider of Plains Indian trained by Andrew Slattery, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount stopped quickly.
E. Walsh, rider of Ronald Pump (GB), trained by Ciaran Murphy, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount never travelled.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Castle Field Boy, trained by Patrick T. Foley, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident on the home turn involving Stuzzikini, ridden by J.W. Kennedy, Castle Field Boy, ridden by M.J.M O'Sullivan, Angels Dawn, ridden by P.T. Enright, Ballyadam Destiny (GB), ridden by D. King, and Missiee, ridden by G.B. Noonan, where it appeared that Castle Field Boy got tight for room close to the railing. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
