Surf Instructor leads over the last© Photo Healy Racing
Rachael Blackmore landed the Ratoath Pharmacy Ladies National Handicap in Fairyhouse on Surf Instructor to give her a double on the card.
Surf Instructor moved to the front at the halfway stage of this extended two mile six test.
The seven-year-old gelding travelled well racing round the home bend as he took a few lengths out of the pursuers.
However, he started to idle two out as The Church Gate got a sniff of victory in his nostrils.
Surf Instructor had a good look at the last before he jumped it and The Church Gate landed full of running under Karen Ferris.
Surf Instructor edged left on the run-in and was all out to take the spoils by a length at 5/1.
The Church Gate went off the 11/4 favourite and was 12 lengths clear of Home Place in third at 20/1.
Henry de Bromhead, saddling a double, said: “I'm delighted with that. It was a super ride from Rachael and it was a lovely performance from the horse.
“There were plenty of good riders out there but obviously it's great to have Rachael on our side, especially after they jumped the last when she pulled her whip through.
“This horse probably doesn't want it quick but he's in good form and we need to strike while the iron is hot.”
Blackmore was also successful aboard de Bromhead's Or Jaune De Somoza in the second race.
This was her 88th victory of the season.
The Stewards interviewed Ms K. Ferris, rider of The Church Gate, concerning her use of the whip in the latter 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 Ms K. Ferris was in breach of R10(3)(g) by using her whip with excessive frequency and R10(3)(i) by not allowing her mount three strides to respond to the whip. Having taken her previous record into consideration, the Stewards suspended Ms K. Ferris for one race day.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
