J P McManus enjoyed a successful visit to Tipperary yesterday when his colours were carried to victory in the three featured races by Grimes, Fier Goumier and Saor Theas.
Grimes recorded a bloodless win when making all in the Betdaq Hurdle. The two miles event was greatly devalued as a spectacle when main market rival Quinze fell at the fifth, and the Charlie Swan-ridden 4/7 chance was left clear after Kilcash Castle also fell five out.
Norman Williamson, rider of Quinze, was taken to Limerick Regional Hospital for x-rays on his left ankle.
Christy Roche is considering an ambitous campaign at Galway for the winner saying: 'I believe he could run in both the Plate and the Hurdle. If he runs in the Plate he would also be declared for the Hurdle, but I will leave it up to J P to make the final decision. They are two great pots'.
The Tote - The Easy Way To Bet Handicap Chase proved a far more competitive affair, with most of the eight runners in contention at the final fence. Colins Double led at this point, but could only manage sixth place after a bad blunder. Fier Goumier quickened up nicely on the run-in under Conor O'Dwyer to land the spoils by two lengths from River Cora.
'That was a good performance, and he will be switched back to hurdles for a two and a half miles race on the Thursday of Galway week', said trainer Arthur Moore, who had mixed fortunes as Royal Marine broke his neck when falling at the last.
Saor Theas, also trained by Roche, completed a great day for McManus when making all under Paul Moloney for a two length verdict over Mail Man in the O'Callaghan Hotels Hurdle.
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