Copie Conforme strikes for Halpin & Prendergast

Copie Conforme overcame a wide draw, as she made the breakthrough on her sixth start in the Champion Lettings Handicap.

A solid third on her handicap debut at Sligo, the Kevin Prendergast-trained bay since finished seventh at Limerick and was sent off a 14/1 chance this evening.

Settled behind the leaders by Gary Halpin and fourth halfway, the 62-rated victor took closer order from the two-furlong pole and was soon ridden into a narrow lead, keeping on well in the closing stages.

There was a gap of a length-and-a-quarter back to the Paul Stafford-trained Are You In Or Out (18/1), while Saffredi (3/1f), who finished second at Roscommon on Tuesday, was another length-and-a-quarter away in third.

Bought at the Goffs Sportsman's Sale for E18,000, the winner is owned by the executors of the late Lady O'Reilly.

"She did it well, she settled well and the drop back in trip suited her well. She had plenty left in the tank," Halpin commented.

"It is great to ride a winner for the boss in these colours, the late Lady O'Reilly's colours.

"His (Prendergast) horses are in great form."

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Moutarde trained by Gavin Cromwell, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident in the closing stages of this race involving Thrifty Of Digby ridden by S. Foley, placed fifth, Saffredi (GB), ridden by W.J. Lee, placed third, and Dolce Far Niente ridden by G.F. Carroll, placed sixth, where it appeared Saffredi and Dolce Far Niente made slight contact. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.

Additional reporting by Michael Graham