Full Court Press (right) sees off Slaney Street © Photo Healy Racing
Full Court Press won the Tote Handicap over a mile and five for the second year in-a-row, scoring under Connor King for Johnny Murtagh.
Well-beaten on his last two starts, the son of Frozen Power was available at 9/1 this morning, but opened on-course at 4s before going off a 9/2 chance.
Settled in rear, he took closer order from three furlongs out, and was ridden in third as they approached the entrance to the straight.
He came with his effort on the outer inside the final 200 yards, and was soon pushed to the front, going on to score by a length. Slaney Street who was sent off the 11/8 favourite, finished second under Kevin Manning for Jim Bolger, while Paris Snow was a length and a quarter back in third.
King said: "He won this race last year and it's great he's done it again. He disappointed the last twice, but has been working well. Hopefully he'll go on from here."
STEWARDS REPORT
The Stewards requested a report from J.P. Murtagh, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Full Court Press, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that his charge disappointed on its last start at the Curragh when missing the break. He also added that the slow pace did not suit his charge. He concluded by saying that the horse is a course winner and having dropped down the handicap returned to form today. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered.
