Rogue Angel and Ger Fox© Photo Healy Racing
Mouse Morris saddled four runners in the Guinness Kerry National and came out on top as the front-running Rogue Angel rallied gamely in the closing stages for Ger Fox to record a dramatic victory. Urano looked sure to triumph in the 175,000 euro three-mile test when sweeping to the front approaching the final fence but the very testing ground took it's toll close home.
Rogue Angel dug deep for Fox to get back up on the line by a short-head, while Morris also saddled the third as Rule The World couldn't find any extra from before the last to finish another three and a half lengths adrift. The Paparrazi Kid was a further 11 lengths back in fourth, while well-backed 11/2 favourite Lots Of Memories fell fatally six out and brought down Owega Star who unfortunately also had to be put down.
The 8/1 winner, available at 20/1 before a number of non-runners and backed in from 12/1 on track, filled the runner-up spot behind Kylecrue here on Sunday.
Morris said, "He's an out-an-out stayer and he had it all his own way today. He got a great ride from Ger, and he jumped well today. He's a horse I thought might win the four-miler at Cheltenham but it just clicked today.
"I honestly didn't know (if he won the photo-finish) but I presumed I was second!
"Rule The World is not in love with that ground but he's run very well."
Fox said, "To win the Kerry National is unbelievable, and I always had great confidence in the horse. He ran a blinder here on Sunday over two and a half and he wants further.
"In fairness to the horse he put his down and did it for me. I couldn't believe how much he found on the run-in."
(TW & AM)
