Andratx and Derek Fox© Photo Healy Racing
Grand National winner and Sligo native Derek Fox returned to his homeland to win the Leisure Club At Breaffy Handicap Hurdle at Ballinrobe on Andratx
Riding the Manduro chestnut for fellow Yeats County man and uncle, Mark McNiff, Fox was never far away on the Downpatrick victor from 37 days back.
The diminutive four-year-old was then game when asked to win his race, getting the better of Stormey by a length and three parts.
Gambled-on favourite Black Label eventually finished with just one behind him.
"He done it alright, they went hard in front and he kept at it well," stated McNiff.
"He jumps very well, he is a very straightforward little horse and it's grand that he won again.
"He might go on the Flat now, there is a four-year-old handicap here the week after Galway and he might run in that. It depends on what Noel O'Brien (handicapper) thinks.
"He shouldn't go up much for that. He is only rated 60 on the Flat and he will go on most ground, he is very uncomplicated. There are plenty of options at this time of year for the likes of him."
D.E. Splaine, rider of Black Label (GB) trained by Adrian McGuinness, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount never travelled.
P.T. Enright, rider of Voluptueux (FR) trained by Kevin McDonagh, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount lost its action and was pulled up.
The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Black Label (GB), trained by Adrian McGuinness, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
(DM & EM)
