Bellick and Colin Keane© Photo Healy Racing
The Arkle Bar Handicap at Navan saw trainer John McConnell continue his good run as the Rockview Racing Club-owned Bellick prevailed at odds of 12/1.
Champion jockey Colin Keane was patient on the son of Mayson but he got there in plenty of time to beat Rising Eagle by a length.
"He ran well on his first handicap run and the only thing we were worried about was the ground," said McConnell.
"It was a lot different and some of those Maysons like ease. Colin said he wouldn't want it any quicker and they've done a good job watering.
"He's only learning the sprint game, it takes a bit of getting used to. Hopefully he's progressive. He's a nice little horse, and wasn't expensive, so I'm delighted with that.
"It's just getting them to where they fit in. It takes a while sometimes, especially with the horses you buy as yearlings. They are not all going to win maidens up the Curragh so you have to find their grade.
"They're healthy and if they're healthy you have a chance."
D.P. McDonogh, rider of Just Waterville trained by William Durkan, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung left throughout.
(GC & EM)
