Winter Magic and Davy Russell clear the last ahead of Nimdani© Photo Healy Racing
The Conker Club (11/4 favourite, 3rd home) and Venture Lazarus (eventually came home in rear) were the money horses from early in the day for the Kilfeacle Stud Handicap Chase at Tipperary but Winter Magic (7s into 6s) upstaged the lot under Davy Russell.
Equipped with blinkers for the first time, Winter Magic (a winner in first-time cheek-pieces previously) wasn't great two out but Nimdani couldn't bridge the gap on the run-in and a length split them at the line.
"He travelled well all through the race and that was exactly what I expected out of him. I don't like to see those 'P's' beside a horse's name but you'd have to say the blinkers worked," remarked successful trainer Jimmy Mangan.
"Davy said as long as there's juice in the ground to keep going."
The Stewards interviewed D. Robinson, rider, in relation to his riding where he appeared to stop riding in the closing stages and was beaten a short head for fourth. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who stated that he mistook the winning post and stopped riding for the last few strides. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Rule 212 and having considered his record, suspended him for two race days and ordered that he forfeit his riding fee.
The Stewards requested a report from James Joseph Mangan, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Winter Magic, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that his charge disappointed on his last two starts and was subsequently checked out but nothing showed up. He added that the application of first time blinkers seems to have helped his charge return to form. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered.
B.J. Cooper, rider of Pink Coat (GB) trained by Ms. Sandra Hughes, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount jumped poorly.
(TW & EM)
