Versin Getorix (Shane Fitzgerald) leads Cottie (Hugh Morgan) home© Photo Healy Racing
Division one of the Coola Maiden Hurdle at Kilbeggan saw a lovely performance from newcomer Versin Getorix (18/1), who landed the spoils for owner/trainer John Ryan and jockey Shane Fitzgerald.
The Michael Daly-bred five-year-old is out of a half-sister to five to seven furlong Group race performer Roicead.
Versin Getorix seems to have pace and stamina and after disputing, he led after the second and made the rest. In the end the successful Roderic O’Connor gelding had three and a half lengths and eight lengths to spare over 13/8 joint favourites, Cottie and Wild Shot
“He's the real deal, he's a good horse,” said Ryan.
“I didn't think he'd win, I was hopeful coming here but we hadn't huge expectations as we thought it was a tight enough race.
“He's a very good horse but he suffered from ulcers and my daughter Gillian really sorted him out and got him right.
“He looked like a lovely horse early in the year but lost his way and I have to give a lot of credit to Gillian.
“He'll go to Galway for a novice hurdle now.”
G.P. Brouder, rider of Lady De Vesci trained by M.Halford, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount met with interference in running. The stewards reviewed the incident and were satisfied that no further action was warranted.
(GC & EM)
