Blankiedoodie and Carroll combine for a 4th win

Just a head and a neck separated them at the end of the Moyne Handicap at Thurles and Blankiedoodie (11/1) was the one to come out on top for John McConnell and Gary Carroll.

Blankiedoodie led and disputed, and he was headed after three and a half furlongs.

Third halfway, the victorious Halling gelding was ridden to regain a narrow lead on the inner two furlongs out.

Strongly pressed over a furlong out, Blankiedoodie kept on well under pressure in the final furlong and was all out to keep Adapt To Dan and No Way Jack at bay.

"The ground was probably a bit too slow for him but he tries hard, had a good draw and used it and travelled well the whole way,” said Carroll.

"Maybe I kicked him a bit early in the straight and in the last 100 yards I was just looking for the line.

"He has been knocking on the door and has been creeping up a pound or two in the weights so deserved to get another win."

C.D. Hayes, rider of Havana Breeze trained by Miss Hilary McLoughlin, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung right.

(Quotes — Tom Weekes)