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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

Apparition grabs victory from jaws of defeat

Thu 12th Oct 2017, 15:09

Apparition (J J Slevin) in winning action at ThurlesApparition (J J Slevin) in winning action at Thurles
© Photo Healy Racing

In-running punters suffered carnage as Apparition gained an unlikely victory in the Devils Bit 3-Y-O Maiden Hurdle at Thurles.

The well-backed 5/4 favourite was up with the pace throughout but looked booked for minor honours when chief market rival Mitchouka cruised to the front after the penultimate flight.

A slight mistake at the last meant Davy Russell had to get down to work on the leader, and he was steadily reeled in by the Joseph O’Brien-trained favourite.

J J Slevin’s mount just got up in the final stride to prevail by a nose, with the winner’s stablemate Thomas O’Malley nine lengths back in third.

Apparition won twice on the Flat this year at the Curragh and Killarney to earn a rating of 89, and was third on his hurdle debut at Gowran Park last month.

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.