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Ardamir rewards Keogh's homework

Ardamir and Rachael Blackmore in winning formArdamir and Rachael Blackmore in winning form
© Photo Healy Racing

Ardamir (7/2) picked off the duelling pair of Politicise and Vado Forte to land the opening claiming hurdle at Ballinrobe.

Politicise and Vado Forte took over from Hooklinesinker at the second last with Ardamir soon adopting a stalking mission in third.

The leader, Politicise, had Vado Forte off the bridle after the last, however, Ardamir was unleashed three wide in the straight by Rachael Blackmore to lead inside the final furlong.

The 10-year-old gelding kept on well to see off Politicise (10/1) by two and a half lengths.

Vado Forte, the well-backed 6/4 favourite dropped two lengths out of the places in third.

Trainer Pat O'Donnell said: "A nice bit of business there by Peter Keogh who owns him and claimed him last year.

"He worked in the bookmaking industry in Malta for a good while and knows his figures. He rides out this horse, and one other, every morning before he goes to his day job and he's a big part of the operation at home.

"Obviously the yard is in ripping form. The 66/1 second the other night (Florey Spud at Wexford) was a bit embarrassing but we'll take it anyway!

"I'm delighted for Peter and Paul Costello who has come in on the horse lately.

"We don't really want to lose him but, if he is claimed, so be it."

Vado Forte was claimed for €15,000 by Ross O'Sullivan.

Additional reporting by Mark Nunan

About Michael Graham
Michael has worked in horse racing journalism for more than 15 years, having also written a weekly betting column on Gaelic football and hurling for a newspaper. He is involved in writing the My Racing Story features on this website. He spent a year in South Africa completing a Diploma in Business Administration and also studied Newspaper Journalism in Belfast. He enjoys playing 5-a-side football on a regular basis.