Racing resumed after a troubled year at Punchestown, and Kevin Prendergast wasted no time getting his name on the scoresheet when saddling Hot Trotter and Business Elite to take the opening two maidens.
Hot Trotter lowered the colours of well-touted Ballydoyle newcomer High Chaparral in the EBF Maiden, with Declan McDonogh's mount leading inside the final furlong before just holding on by the minimum margin. The Listed Eyrefield Stakes on the final day of the Flat season at Leopardstown (November 11) is a possible target for the son of Halling.
The track appeared in excellent condition, and jockeys were full of praise with McDonogh describing the ground as 'perfect'.
Promising apprentice Pat Cosgrave was aboard Business Elite in the Castlemartin Stud Maiden, and he made smooth headway to lead well over a furlong out for a two lengths success from Sky To Sea. 'He was sick after running at Sligo in June, and I thought he might need the run today. He also ran well on his first outing this year, so maybe he's best fresh', said Prendergast.
Barba Papa is on course for the Cesarewitch at Newmarket in just under three weeks after landing a gamble in the Mongey Communications Rated Hurdle. Tony Martin's dual purpose gelding headed the front-running Patriot Games before that rival blundered at the final flight, and kept on well under Adrian Maguire to beat Darialann by three lengths.
Right Job was ridden up with the pace throughout by Danny Grant in the Beggars End Handicap, and stretched clear off the home bend for a comfortable three lengths win over Battle Cruiser.
The 20/1 victory of Carnival Buck in the Masterchefs At Punchestown Handicap Hurdle resulted in the jackpot pool of #7,097 being carried forward to the next meeting here on October 18.
[email protected]
