Thurles (IRE) Races

Held up in behind leaders - headway before 3 out - ridden to challenge 2 out - led run-in - kept on well - just did enough(op 17/2)

Disputed lead - led clearly after 4th - mistake and briefly headed 4 out - good jump 3 out - ridden and hard pressed 2 out - headed but kept on run-in - just held(op 7/2 tchd 3/1)

Held up in rear - pushed along 3 out - well behind but headway from 2 out - ridden and went modest third approaching last - stayed on (following a stewards enquiry - jockey said his instructions were to drop in two thirds of the way back and that the gelding is a very difficult sort who dislodged him on the way to the start and had previously refused to race; he added that the gelding jumped well and was very fit but he felt that they had gone too quick up front and that the gelding's fitness had it back into the race.; trainer's rep confirmed the instructions given and expressed his satisfaction with the ride; he also outlined the difficulties that they have had with this horse; vet said geldingwas distressed post-race; the explanation given was noted.)(op 100/1)