Ledecky completes cross-card double for Burns Ledecky completed a cross-card double Nicola Burns in the opener at Tramore, the Assembly Tech Irish EBF Fillies Maiden. Fifth on debut at Galway earlier in the month, the Paddy Twomey-trained Wootton Bassett bay was widely expected to deliver this evening and was sent to post the clear market leader at 2/5. A E72,000 Goffs Orby Sale purchase, the Paul Byrne-owned victor made virtually all and while edging to her left when pushed along with over a furlong to go, she ultimately eased to a four-and-a-half length win. Hampered by the winner when she hung left, Matrice had to settle for the runner-up berth under Mikey Sheehy for Joseph O'Brien, with this one the second choice of punters at 2/1. "I know Paddy always has them fairly straight and she broke well, so I was happy to go forward on her," Burns, who won the second at the Curragh on Sir Alfie, reflected. "She is a tough little filly and I have to thank Paddy for giving me the spin on her, it's great to get it and it's my first winner for him. "In Galway she was a bit green, but she is real tough and stays at it. "I think a mile and four is ideal for her, she has the gears and stays going. Down the line she might step up again and see how it goes. "She liked the track, she is small and loved it." Regarding her trip from the Curragh, she added: "Dad was driving and we were kind of tight for time, but he's a Formula 1 driver now!" STEWARDS REPORTS * M.P. Sheehy, rider of Matrice, trained by Joseph Patrick O'Brien, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was bumped a furlong out. * The Raceday Stewards enquired into an incident at the turn for home involving Ledecky, ridden by Nicola Burns, placed first and Matrice, ridden by M.P. Sheehy, placed second, where it appeared Ledecky made contact with Matrice. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Nicola Burns stated that her mount leaned out turning the bend and that she had made a corrective strike to straighten up. M.P. Sheehy stated that he received slight contact from Ledecky which caused his mount to become unbalanced for a few strides but felt that this had not affected his finishing position. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.
