Tom Mullins and Jack Foley double up at Kilbeggan

Tom Mullins and Jack Foley completed a quick Kilbeggan double when Princely Conn got up on the line to win the Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey Handicap Hurdle.

Incredibly Mullins’ last four runners are now winners - Red Linn (50/1, Leopardstown Thursday), Excelcius (14/1, Killarney Thursday) and Canford Light (6/4, earlier on this card). Kitty Galore looked sure to give John Ryan a brace when clear in the straight, but she couldn’t resist the veteran 14/1 (from 18s) scorer. A short head split them.

Coincidentally Michael Daly bred Ryan’s winner, Versin Getorix as well being listed as the breeder of Princely Conn.

“I didn't know (if he was up) as I watched it head on but I got plenty of texts saying well done so I knew then,” said Mullins.

“He's an old horse with ability. He lost his way over fences a bit and we were just giving him a run back over hurdles to see if he would take an interest and he did.

“Jack was great on him again. He didn't give up on him and he jumped really well for him after jumping the first couple big.

“He was a good hurdler in his day, he was third in the Galway Hurdle for Rachael Blackmore.

“Jack's claim was a big help, the 7lb made the difference with him getting up a short-head.”

The Stewards interviewed John Joseph Hanlon, trainer of Blowing Dixie in relation to his request to substitute S. Fenelon, a 7 lbs claiming rider, with J.S. McGarvey.

Evidence was heard from the trainer concerned who stated that S. Fenelon was injured and was currently in hospital.

Mr. Hanlon stated that he had attempted to replace S. Fenelon with another claiming rider, however it was difficult due to the scheduling of 2 National Hunt meetings today and most of the claiming riders were riding in this race. Mr. Hanlon added that his charge is a difficult ride who both S. Fenelon and J.S. McGarvey are familiar with having ridden him in work regularly. Having considered the evidence the Stewards, pursuant to Rule 196 (iv), allowed the substitution of rider as requested.

S. Fitzgerald, rider of Presenting Bonnie trained by John Patrick Ryan, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount ran a bit flat.

D.F. O'Regan, rider of Tham Luang trained by Liam Lennon, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount finished lame.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Presenting Bonnie, trained by John Patrick Ryan, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

(GC & EM)