Big odds but confidence in Maverick justified

Despite going off at odds of 28/1 Handsome Maverick certainly didn't go un-backed for the concluding Breast Cancer Research Handicap at the Curragh. Reportedly clipped in from as big as 100/1 the grey got the job done under Niall McCullagh.

Owned, trained and bred by Donal Kinsella, Handsome Maverick raced in the rear of mid-division on the far side and he was pushed along and dropped to rear at the halfway stage.

Switched briefly and ridden two furlongs out, the four-year-old made headway into fifth a furlong out, improving to lead close home, staying on well for a one length verdict over A Likely Story

Niall McCullagh said: "I'm not really surprised. Donal fancied him in his own way. I rode him in Bellewstown and liked him on quicker ground over five, and said when this horse gets soft ground and six furlongs he'll win.

"He's only learning about the game, and is on an upward curve. Donal's horses are going well. He minds them like babies and I'm delighted for him."

The Stewards requested a report from Donal Kinsella, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Handsome Maverick, placed first, as compared with its recent form. Aidan Wall, authorised representative of the trainer, reported that his charge was slowly away on his previous run. He added that the horse broke well today and staying on well in the softer ground conditions. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

(AM & EM)