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Punchestown 2024
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- Foley shines as Ondeafears swoops
Gary Carson
Foley shines as Ondeafears swoops
Ondeafears (grey and orange with noseband) has work to do as they turn in
© Photo Healy Racing
Ondeafears swooped from last to first to take the seven-furlong handicap at Listowel under a terrific ride from Shane Foley.
Mick Halford 's charge trailed the field in the early stages as she took time to find her stride in a strongly run race.
Foley played it cool on the mare, however, and nursed her along to take closer order entering the straight. Susiescot looked set to score when going on from Dougal Philps at the furlong pole but couldn't hold the late surge of Ondeafears.
The 9/2 winner (from 6/1) had stayed on into fifth a furlong out and flew home in the final furlong to lead close home and record a half-length success.
It was a third career success for the daughter of Chineur, who has held her form well this summer since winning at the Curragh in May.
"I think we just saw the ride of the year!" exclaimed Halford afterwards.
"That was an incredibly brave ride. Shane thought they were just going too hard so dropped her in and took a chance.
"When you are riding with that kind of confidence you take chances like that.
"She can be a bit keen at times. It was a brilliant ride and all credit goes to Shane."
Foley explained the ride afterwards saying:-
"They went fast and she was on her head a bit early doors so I just gave her a chance.
"You either travel around here or you don't. In fairness it's a long run up on that ground and I saved a bit early on. It paid off at the finish."
(On course reporting by Donal Murphy)