Quatered cap Ambrose McCurtin on his way to victory on Athloman Cottage© Photo Healy Racing
Unfortunately Game Puppeteer sustained a fatal injury from the last with the favourite still right on the premises in the Win Big With Tote Handicap Hurdle at Tramore. Athloman Cottage then came out best in a blanket finish under Ambrose McCurtin at Tramore.
"That's my first winner on the track, I've had plenty of placed horses but no winner," said successful trainer Donncha Duggan.
"She came off the Flat, John Burke in Thurles had her before me and he done a good job with her.
"She ran well the last day but probably hit the front too soon, we held on to her a bit longer today.
"She might struggle to win again, hopefully she won't get much of a hike for today.
"She handles most types of ground as long as it's not tacky.
"I've ten in at the moment, three for the track and seven for point-to-points.
"I had point-to-point winners before and this one will go for something similar now."
The Stewards enquired into possible interference between the final hurdle and the winning post involving Boytonrath ridden by D.N. Russell, placed second and Hugh Divots ridden by D.E. Mullins, placed fourth, where it appeared that Hugh Divots was left short of room to continue her challenge.
Evidence was heard from the riders concerned.
Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards made no alteration to the Judges placings' and took no further action.
B.J. Foley, rider of Game Puppeteer, trained by Paul Power, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount was pulled up when in contention after the final hurdle having sustained an injury behind the saddle.
(DM & EM)
