Camlann and Rachael Blackmore hold off Afatcat and Chris Timmons© Photo Healy Racing
Camlann (5/1) has certainly earned his keep this week and turned out for the third time at Ballybrit he added to the gains secured from two third placings by taking the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Hurdle under Rachael Blackmore.
Camlann's connections, owners the Mee family, trainer John 'Shark' Hanlon and Blackmore all went close in the Guinness Galway Hurdle on Thursday. The Mees and Hanlon had the runner-up there with Hidden Cyclone, whilst Blackmore finished third for J P McManus and Tom Mullins on Princely Conn.
Camlann 'missed' the last a touch under Blackmore and he was soon looking likely to be claimed by Afatcat (Chris Timmons without irons from the penultimate flight). However he toughed it out well to prevail by three parts of a length. There was the same distance to strong-finishing favourite Dollar And A Dream (didn't get the run of the race) in third.
"He's run three times here this week. The first day was my fault as I didn't put the hood on him, and his next run on the Flat he just didn't get a clear run at the right time. He's a galloper and stays well," stated Hanlon.
"I'm delighted for the Mee family and for myself but especially Rachael Blackmore as she has been knocking on the door all week (second on Supreme Vinnie yesterday as well) and that means a lot to her.
"He's a very genuine horse and will get a month off now."
The Stewards interviewed C.D. Timmons, rider of Afatcat(GB), concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race.
Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of both Regulation 10.3.(f), in that he had used his whip with excessive frequency and Regulation 4 in that he had failed to give his mount sufficient time to respond.
Having taken his previous good record in this regard into account, the Stewards suspended him for one race day.
(AM & EM)
