Lyons and Keane double up with That Ger Lyons and Colin Keane doubled up at Navan this afternoon when This That edged the verdict in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Optional Claiming Maiden. The Sergei Prokofiev colt came with a swooping run to lead inside the final furlong in the mile contest but 2/5 favourite Leadlight rallied well. This That just was all out close home as he just held his rival at the line to secure a short-head success. The 9/2 winner was dropping grade after three maiden runs. Lyons had also saddled Amiata to score two race previously and he said:- Lyons said: "I’m delighted, but I don't agree with optional claimers. Would he have been in the claimer if he was to be claimed? No, he wouldn't. "I have taken a chance as has the second and I think the third (Jezzie Bea). "We don't have enough claimers, and I don't think we need them (optional claimers) in this country. I need a claimer every week because people will buy our horses, and I believe in them. "The rules allowed me in today, so I took a punt because the maidens are so hot. "We found his trip and I don't think the handicapper has missed him - he normally has a grasp of them. "I'd like to think that's (nursery) where we will aim - aim as low as we are allowed to aim. "I think the point of the story today is, I don't agree with optional claimers and I'd like to know who brought them in. I certainly didn't know about them. I don't think we need them in this country." (Quotes by Michael Graham)
