Swamp Fox and Barry Browne were the heroes in the featured Connacht Hotel (Q.R.) Handicap on the first day of the Galway Festival.

Swamp Fox raced off joint bottom-weight of 10 stone when Browne's claim was factored in for this 80,000 euro contest over two miles one furlong.

The pair began to creep into the race in the last half mile as they steadily improved from mid-division to move into a threatening third at the three marker.

It was Benkei and Ashbury Boss who were at the head of affairs but the latter soon wilted as Swamp Fox swept by him.

Benkei was headed with less than a quarter of a mile to race and Swamp Fox was ridden by Browne approaching the home straight.

The duo were in charge and kept going to close it out from the staying on Ted Veale (14/1) who got to within two and a quarter lengths.

Benkei (13/2) and Renneti (9/1) took third and fourth respectively.

Handler Joe Murphy said: "It was the plan. We had him in an amateur flat race at Leopardstown and we thought he would go well there and that would put him right for here. Then we went to Ballinrobe and the handicapper gave us 1lb.

"We were very lucky to get the rider as it was in the last moment. I did a bit of research and this rider was recommended to me.

"I gave him two pieces of instruction which I very seldom give a jockey - I said if you can get out get up there and, if not, take your time.

"One thing about him is he will travel, he will finish and he's a lazy horse. I have always said there is a big race in this horse and he is a lovely horse to have.

"To win an amateur race here and to have a big race in Galway just makes life worth living!"

Browne (25), from Donadea, Co Kildare, said: "I can't thank Garry Cribbin (jockeys' agent) enough for getting the ride and losing 6lb to make the weight was definitely well worthwhile.

"It's unbelievable - I've been professional in England in the past and it's in my head to turn back again. I've 13 winners left to lose my 7lb claim."

The Stewards received a report from the Clerk of the Scales, P.L. Malone, that Mr S. Clements, rider of Ted Veale, weighed in at 1.6lbs overweight. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that he was doing a light weight and rehydrated after weighing out. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Mr S. Clements was in breach of Rule 231 and therefore suspended him for two race days having taken his previous record into consideration.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes