Ned's Indian (right, Chris Hayes) sees off Hes Our Music (centre) and Catchy Lass (left)© Photo Healy Racing
Wexford owner Edward Power, father of Melbourne Cup winners Walter and Robert, saw his own horse Ned's Indian triumph in the Crowne Plaza Jockey & Trainer Awards Handicap at Dundalk tonight.
Walter and Robert, along with fellow Wexford man, Fergie Doyle, recently brought the cup home after Protectionist's huge win earlier in the month, and here at this much more modest level Ned's Indian showed heart in abundance to bring up a double for his rider Chris Hayes.
Hayes had earlier been on the mark on opening winner Times In Anatefka and he got Ned's Indian (well-backed 4/1 joint favourite) home by a head and half a length from Catchy Lass and Hes Our Music having made virtually all.
Winning trainer Sabrina Harty said: "He's as tough as nails. He's not big but is as hardy as they come.
"He gave a cough after the last day so he had a mini break. He loves it here and will probably come back for one more before Christmas.
"It's great for the owner, Ned Power. His sons are involved with the Melbourne Cup winner Protectionist so they can carry on the celebration!
"A lot of credit has to go to his work rider Graham O'Sullivan, who had him spot on."
The Stewards enquired into an incident in the straight involving Hes Our Music, ridden by C.P. Hoban, placed third, Won Diamond (GB), ridden by C.J. McGovern, unplaced, Catchy Lass, ridden by J.P. O'Brien, placed second and Johann Bach ridden by E.J. McNamara, unplaced. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned.
Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards took no further action.
(GC & EM)
