Said Billy Lee after his Royal Hunt Cup success yesterday: "Poor Gary Halpin and his Mrs - they lost a child during the week - we're just thinking of them at this time." It was extra special then to see 3Ib claimer Halpin land the Leopardstown Carnival Night Handicap on Hello Brigette

Ger Lyons saddled the third and fourth home in this six furlong heat, Elegant Drama and It's All A Joke but it was Gottardo that gave Hello Brigette most to do.

In truth though Hello Brigette was much the best on the night, obliging by two and a half lengths.

Michael O'Callaghan trains Hello Brigette and he said: "I was cautious about running her on the ground, and I wasn't sure whether she would let herself down or not. I rang the owners today at lunchtime and they said go ahead.

"She has been working very well and has turned inside out physically since her last run. If she keeps progressing the owners would like to sneak a bit of black type somewhere.

"She will probably have to run again in a handicap being realistic but coming towards the end of the year we will be going black type hunting with her.

"She is a progressive filly and it was good to see her handling that ground as I think she is better with a bit of an ease."

(AM & EM)