Rural Link runs out and dramatically unships Patrick Mullins, with Friary Road (far right) going on to score© Photo Healy Racing
Owned and bred by Helen Walsh and trained by her husband Ted, Friary Road came out on top after a dramatic conclusion to the Kevin McManus Bookmaker INH Flat Race.
Out of four-time winner Summer Star, the successful son of Finsceal Fior was a solid fifth on debut at Killarney in August and was sent off an 11/1 chance today (from 16s early).
Settled behind the leaders by Josh Williamson, the bay victor came with his challenge between horses with less than two furlongs to go.
Ridden and gaining a narrow lead from the furlong pole, he found plenty for pressure in the closing stages, holding off the effort of the Eric McNamara-trained Gaoithe Glory (14/1) by half a length.
McNamara was also responsible for Torps (16/1), who was another half a length away in third.
Returned the 15/8 favourite, Rural Link was in a share of the lead when he edged right in the straight. He eventually ran out and unseated Patrick Mullins inside the final furlong when dramatically colliding with the wing of a hurdle.
"He ran very well the first day when only beaten ten lengths by four four-year-olds and it was a strong race with plenty of placed form," Williamson reflected.
"We were a little concerned about the ground and as it turned out he handled it well.
"He kept going well to the line and will be a nice horse for the future.
"It is my first winner for Ted and he has been very good to me to let me ride him. My father and Katie (Walsh) are in the same business with breeze-ups so we know their family very well."
STEWARDS REPORT
The Raceday Stewards interviewed Miss T. Quail, rider of Max Goodwin concerning her use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated it was a misjudgement on her behalf and apologised. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that Miss T. Quail was in breach of Regulation 10.3 (g) (frequency) and having considered her clean record in this regard they suspended her for 2 racedays.
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
