Fort George poses with his winning connections in Killarney© Photo Healy Racing
With Andrew Lynch being stood down following a hand injury, Barry Geraghty came in for a spare ride on Fort George (6/1) and he made it count in the two mile six handicap chase.
The 11-year-old gelding was always prominent as he raced in third behind The Lady Granuaile and the leader Rockshandy Geraghty got a lovely run round the inner before the third last and picked up the lead. He forged on, but had to see off a challenge from Tylers Cottage who kept him honest all the way to the line. He was beaten by a length and a quarter at 13/2.
The 5/1 favourite, A Decent Excuse finished third beaten three and a half lengths by the winner.
Successful trainer Henry de Bromhead said: "It's a pity Andrew missed it, but Barry gave him a savage ride. He was unbelievable on him and the horse ran his heart out. He'll come back here in August and then heads to the Doncaster Sales in September."
Andrew Lynch said: "I injured my left hand yesterday at Downpatrick. I aggravated the injury riding Loosen My Load here. I'm going for an X-ray in the morning."
Mark Enright, who took a fall from Ross Na Righ at the third last in this race, was taken by ambulance to hospital.
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
