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Michael Graham

Michael Graham

Halimi takes good pot for Bolger and Manning

Sat 12th Sep 2020, 15:17

Halimi strikes the frontHalimi strikes the front
© Photo Healy Racing

Halimi got to grips with front-running Springbank to win the Petingo Premier Handicap at Leopardstown for Jim Bolger and Kevin Manning.

Springbank attempted to put away his 17 rivals when he kicked for home with a furlong and a half to go.

He increased his advantage, but it didn't prove to be enough as Halimi improved into second passing the furlong pole.

The pursuer was soon ridden by Manning, in the Godolphin silks, and his mount wore down Springbank in the final 100 yards to win by half a length at the end of this extended mile and a half contest. Shoshone Warrior finished his race off well to get up for second at 33/1. Powerful Ted (14/1) took third spot by a nose from the weakening Springbank (14/1).

“I just spoke to the boss and he's delighted with the horse. He's a nice progressive type,” said Una Manning.

“We're thrilled with him and he'll go for more of the same. It's nice to win a big pot like this on Champions Day.”

The Stewards interviewed G.P. Halpin, rider of Springbank, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards found G. P. Halpin in breach of regulation 10.3(g) excessive frequency and having considered G. P. Halpins record in this regard the Stewards suspended G. P. Halpin for two race days.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson

1st
18/1
Tote €15.60 €3.60
2nd
0.5L
33/1
€6.50
3rd
0.75L
14/1
€4.30
4th
nose
14/1
€2.90
bf
0.5L
9/2Fav
About Michael Graham
Michael has worked in horse racing journalism for more than 15 years, having also written a weekly betting column on Gaelic football and hurling for a newspaper. He is involved in writing the My Racing Story features on this website. He spent a year in South Africa completing a Diploma in Business Administration and also studied Newspaper Journalism in Belfast. He enjoys playing 5-a-side football on a regular basis.