Hatton prevails for O'Mara & Lee

The Thomond O’Mara trained Hatton Cross just prevailed in the Ballyduane Stud Handicap, holding off the late surge of Count Of Carabass

The five-year-old son of Moss Vale ran a cracker on his last start over the course and distance, finishing just half a length second to Pixie Spirit, and he was sent off the 7/2 favourite (backed from 4/1) to go one place better this evening.

Settled in mid-division by Billy Lee he improved on the outer and was soon ridden as they turned into the straight.

He made further progress into second a furlong and a half from home, gradually reeling in the front running Togoville inside the final furlong, while also holding off the late run of Count Of Carabass.

A photo finished was called after they crossed the line with Hatton Cross getting the verdict by a short head.

The Hillary McLoughlin trained Count Of Carabass had to settle for second under Chris Hayes at 8/1 (opened at 12/1 on-course), while Togoville, under Colin Keane for Pat Martin, was a further half a length back in third at 4/1 (opened at 5/1)

When asked whether he thought his gelding had won Thomond O'Mara said: "No, but it must have been in the bob of the head."

He then added: "He was entitled to win on his last run and he will kept doing more of the same."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Stewards received a report from Ms. Nicola O'Connor, Turf Club Veterinary Officer, that Hatton Cross, the winner, trained by T. J. O' Mara, appeared as a colt on it's passport despite having been gelded. Evidence was heard from the trainer concerned who stated that in his opinion, he had returned the horse in training as a gelding and had conformed with the provisions of Rule 148 as is required. He stated that he did not notice that on the passport, the horse was still described as a colt. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards referred the matter to the Chief Executive of the Turf Club for further investigation.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes