Cartwright takes Listed honours under Kennedy

Cartwright made it two wins from four starts since joining Gordon Elliott, as he got the better of Articulum in the Listed Irish Racing Writers Kingsfurze Novice Hurdle.

A six time winner on the level for Mark Prescott, the son of High Chaparral was second on debut for Elliott at Gowran in January, getting off the mark on his next start at Naas.

He was fourth to stable mate Hardline on his most recent start in a Grade 2, and dropped in class today he went to post a 5/1 chance.

Settled in second by Jack Kennedy, the bay victor improved into a share of the lead before two out, and he was soon ridden into a narrow lead.

He was strongly pressed by Articulum on the run-in, but he battled on gamely in the colours of the Reddytorun Syndicate, going on to score by half a length.

The runner-up was returned a 7/1 chance (14s last night and from 8s on-course) under David Splaine for Terence O'Brien, while the easy to back Nessun Dorma (4s to 11/2) was eight lengths back in third, with Paul Townend aboard for Willie Mullins. Draconien was sent off the well-backed 10/3 favourite (from 9/2), but he unseated David Mullins at the third.

Gordon Elliott said afterwards: "He's tough and he's honest, and even further would suit him on better ground. He's a good fun horse and we'll mix it with the Flat with him all being well."

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Stewards interviewed D.E. Splaine, rider of Articulum, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards found D.E Spaine in breach of Regulation 10.4 (f) in that he used his whip with excessive frequency. Having considered his previous record in this regard, the Stewards cautioned him.

D.N. Russell, rider of Roaring Bull trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount made a mistake at the last in back straight.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Roaring Bull, trained by Gordon Elliott, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee