Veneer Of Charm is ridden out by Shane Kelly© Photo Healy Racing
Veneer Of Charm justified favouritism in the Navanadventuresports.ie And Multiactivity Park Handicap, scoring for Michael O'Callaghan and the Amethyst Syndicate.
Having disappointed when sent off favourite at Leopardstown last October, and at Cork last month, the son of Fast Company finally got off the mark this afternoon.
Available at 6/1 last night, he opened on-course at 4's, touching 11/4, before going off the clear 3/1 favourite on his first try over a mile and two.
Settled behind the leaders by Shane Kelly, the bay victor was poised to challenge in fifth on the entrance to the straight.
He travelled strongly to lead with just over two furlongs to race, and he was soon ridden clear, keeping on well inside the final furlong to score by a length and three parts. Less Of That (6/1) attempted to chase down the winner from the furlong pole, but she ultimately had to settle for second under David Simmonson for Johny Feane. Claregate Street was another three lengths back in third under Shane Foley for Mick Halford at 20/1, while Les Arceaux (10/1) completed the placings another two and three parts of a length back in fourth, with Ross Coakley in the saddle for Johnny Murtagh.
The winning rider said afterwards: "We always thought he had ability, it was just getting it out of him. I think the trip and the fact the ground came right for him was a big help.
"He got to the front too soon but I had to go when I had to go. He kept battling well.
"We've always liked him but it was just about trying to get his act together and thankfully he's starting to come right.
"I think ground is a big part of it. The rain came at the right time and everything worked out nicely.
"Things are going well and Mike has given me great support so thankfully I'm able to pay him back."
STEWARDS REPORTS
D.P. McDonogh, rider of Downtown Rebel (USA) trained by Andrew Slattery, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was checked in running after a furlong.
The Stewards requested a report from M.D. O'Callaghan, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Veneer Of Charm, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that his horse broke well today on what was a stiffer track and on more suitable ground conditions and felt that this had brought about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the report, the Stewards noted the explanation offered
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
