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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

Nautical sails in to land spoils

Sat 4th Jul 2015, 19:46

Grangeclare Rosa leads over the last with Nautical Nitwit (yellow cap) and Ultimate Horseman challengingGrangeclare Rosa leads over the last with Nautical Nitwit (yellow cap) and Ultimate Horseman challenging
© Photo Healy Racing

The market suggested Nautical Nitwit would run a big race in the Western Motors Commercial Vehicles Maiden Hurdle, and he duly delivered in this three-mile test at Bellewstown.

Supported at 5/1 this morning and eventually sent off a 7/2 chance, the six-year-old gelding benefitted from a patient ride by Ger Fox.

Robbie Burns' charge came from off the pace to challenge at the last, and responded under pressure on the run-in to get the better of Ultimate Horseman by a head.

The 11/10 favourite Grangeclare Rosa made a slight mistake when leading at the last, and could find no extra to finish over three lengths back in third.

Burns said, "He gave him a great ride and was cool and calm.

"I fancied him the last day in Tramore but he was unfortunate. We learnt a bit from that. He's a nice little horse and deserved that.

"We'll see if there is anything in Galway for him. He stays, jumps and likes that ground. He's a summer horse and I'll put him away when the ground changes."

(GC & AM)

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.