Castle Guest and Shane Foley out in front at Gowran Park© Photo Healy Racing
Castle Guest followed up on his Leopardstown success with a snug win the extended mile and one handicap at Gowran Park.
Shane Foley was up on the four-year-old son of Rock Of Gibraltar. He made it a real test from the front and his opponents quickly came off the bridle two furlongs out.
Castle Guest (9/2) had more in the tank and bounded clear from there to win by a length and three parts from Brown Butterfly (14/1) who tried hard to close. Cloud Monkey at 20/1 was a head behind Brown Butterfly while 7/2 favourite Tropical Mist disappointed when weakening and trailing in last.
“He likes to roll along and getting his head in front at Leopardstown helped his confidence,” handler Mick Halford explained.
“It’s beautiful ground out there and it’s a credit to them. That trip is good for him. He jumps a hurdle as well so we’ve plenty of options for him.”
Danny Grant, rider of Tropical Mist, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount became upset prior to running. The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Tropical Mist and reported the animal to be slightly lame post race.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
