Dibdabs is too strong for Benrouge at Tramore© Photo Healy Racing
A week ago at this venue, backers of a Willie Mullins-trained favourite in a bumper were left disappointed when Slate Lady under-performed badly after 'bursting.' Normal service was resumed at Tramore today though when Dibdabs landed the concluding Sponsor A Race At Tramore Racecourse (C & G) (Pro/Am) Flat Race.
Mentioned in a Willie Mullins Irish Field stable-tour in February 2011 when the then unraced four-year-old was said to be bumper bound, on his way to a hurdling career, Dibdabs (many will associate the name with the kids' favourite, sherbet dip) eventually first saw action early this year.
He miserably failed to land a gamble then under 'Badger' McAlister for Maurice Barnes – at Ayr, but he was up to the task today without the tongue-strap that he wore in Scotland.
The Royal Anthem gelding stayed on too powerfully for his opponents from over a furlong out – accounting for Benrouge and Chakisto by two and three parts of a length and the same.
Mullins, doubling-up after winning with Sweet My Lord earlier, said: "It took a lot to settle him. He took a good 'bite' going down to the start and he was very keen.
"He didn't handle the downhill parts of the track. He'd prefer somewhere more galloping.
"He looks a chaser in the making but he'll probably have a few runs over hurdles first. He'll go chasing then next season." (DM & EM)
