50/1 to 7/2: Tramore Race 'Boggles The Mind'

The dramatic gamble on Figaruso at Tramore last Tuesday has created high levels of interest within racing circles, as the horse was backed from 50-1 into 7-2, before eventually winning at 15-2.

What makes this case particularly intriguing is that trainer Matt Quinn, who hadn't saddled a winner in 681 days, opted not to put in a claim for his own successful horse in the claimer, despite the dramatic market moves suggesting significant confidence.

Cromwell's steal raises questions about claiming race tactics

The most perplexing aspect of the Tramore gamble wasn't just the dramatic price fluctuations, but rather what happened after the race. In an extraordinary turn of events, Gavin Cromwell was the only trainer to submit a claim for Figaruso, securing the six-year-old for just €8,000.

"The only one who thought of putting one in was Gavin Cromwell. He got it for eight grand. I think he's after getting a steal here," noted Vincent Finegan in this week’s irishracing.com’s YouTube show The Irish Angle.

The decision by Figaruso’s connections to let the horse go after such a confident gamble has left racing observers scratching their heads. Johnny Warden was particularly bewildered, saying: "There was no claim put in by the yard - that absolutely boggles the mind. How could you not see what this horse is doing on the gallops at home and think he was worth claiming?

This wasn't just any horse, but one with back class. Figaruso had shown promise earlier in his career, notably finishing second in a three-year-old hurdle at Killarney before his lengthy absence from the track.

Expert perspective: A puzzling strategy

What makes this case stand out among claiming race gambles is the apparent disconnect between the betting confidence and post-race strategy. The Quinn yard seemed happy to part with Figaruso despite the horse's obvious ability after a three-year layoff.

Emma Nagle weighed in on the situation and noted: "That was probably the most mind-boggling part of the whole thing - the fact that they let the horse go after backing it."

For County Down-based trainer Matt Quinn, represented on the day by his daughter Bernie, the victory broke a 681-day drought without a winner. Yet despite the three-and-a-half-hour journey to Tramore and the horse's clear ability, they seemed content with the betting returns rather than keeping the rejuvenated performer.

Cromwell's opportunistic claim may prove the shrewdest move of all. In acquiring a horse that had shown significant ability both in its back form and its impressive comeback win, the successful trainer may have secured a bargain that could pay dividends over hurdles in the coming seasons.

With the Quinns now heading back to County Down without their winner, racing fans will be watching Cromwell's yard closely to see what future plans await a horse that has already proven himself capable of springing a surprise.

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