The runners were a bit thin on the ground but punters still turned up in good number in glorious sunshine on day two of the Festival meeting, with Bronica taking the featured Killone Estates Handicap Chase in the colours of the sponsor`s wife Ranka Pollmeier.
Neil Mulholland`s mount led after three out, and threw a fine leap at the last to beat favourite Martys Step by two and a half lengths. 'She has been running consistently, and Neil gave her a grand ride,' said successful local trainer John Kiely.
Kiely later completed a mixed double when Kilbride King justified good support in the Lombard & Ulster Bank Handicap. Michael Hussey, partnering his 12th winner of the campaign, switched the 5/2 favourite to the stands side for a clear run inside the final furlong to beat Courtown Boy by a length.
Paul Moloney partnered his fourth winner since returning recently from a serious pelvic injury when Penny Rich took the Richard Power Bookmakers Handicap Hurdle. The whole complexion of the race changed at the second last where narrow leader Quintus fell, and Penny Rich quickly stretched clear of only remaining rival Khairabar to score by 15 lengths.
'He settled well today, and will probably go next for a maiden on the Flat. We may go for another handicap hurdle at either Tralee or Listowel,' said winning trainer Tom Hogan.
