Big priced George wins again

Lake George recorded his second win of the season in the Joe Lynch Lifetime Achievement in Racing Handicap for his trainer James Barrett with Rory Cleary aboard.

Having won a handicap over seven furlongs on his first start of the season at Limerick, he was a bit disappointing on his next effort at Naas over six furlongs finishing seventh to Ucanchoose, when sent off the 6/1 co favourite.

His starting price of 16/1 today, in this wide open handicap, looked generous given his recent efforts.

The 3yo son of Alkaadhem, chased the leaders early on before moving into third three furlongs out. He was ridden over two furlongs out but kept on well under pressure to led in the last 50 yards.

The 6/1 joint favourite Erins Gal looked a winner inside the final furlong but couldn't match the late surge of Lake George and finished a length behind in second under Chris Hayes. Missile Command who led for much for the race, plugged on to take third, four lengths back for trainer Jane Foley at 22/1, while the other 6/1 joint favourite Olfa completed the placings in fourth.

Winning trainer James Barrett said afterwards: "We really fancied him the last day at Naas, but things didn't go well.

"He was out of the handicap here but we took our chance and its great to win at the Curragh.

"I had a runner at Kilbeggan yesterday evening and he pulled up, so it just shows you the ups and downs of the game.

"I have two flat horses and five jumpers in my yard at the moment."

Donal Murphy