Dollar disappoints as Routine takes Bellewstown opener

In for E12,000, Routine Excellence led home his 11-rivals in the Dave Harvey Memorial Claiming Hurdle.

The winner of a point-to-point on debut for Colin Bowe at Tinahely back in October of 2020, the son of Getaway was subsequently bought by current connections for 55,000 pounds.

Last seen finishing a good fifth of 20 at Galway, the eight-year-old registered a fourth track success this afternoon.

Racing mainly in third under Keith Donoghue, the Gavin Cromwell-trained victor was pushed along before three out, coming with his challenge on the approach to the next.

Ridden to the front before the final flight, where he wasn't fluent, the 11/2 chance kept on well in the closing stages and was a length-and-three-quarters clear of I Am Spider Man at the line.

Backed from 10/1 into 16/5, the runner-up ran on well away from the last but ultimately had to settle for minor honours, with Wild Shot (25/1) another length away in third.

Sent off the 5/4 favourite, Dollar Value blundered when in front three out and faded tamely once headed, eventually finishing a disappointing fourth.

"He did (have the form to be a factor in that race) and it is a long time since he won a race," Cromwell commented.

"We've had a bit of fun with him, but maybe there is more to be had. We'll keep him going if we don't lose him.

"In fairness, he has been running well of late and it is good to get his head back in front."

The following were claimed in the aftermath:

I Am Spider Man (E8,000) - Rachel O'Neill to be trained by Shark Hanlon. Boom Boom Boom (E6,000) - Shauna Kelly to be trained by Noel Kelly. Brianna Lily (E5,000) - Yvonne Hennessy to be trained by James Barcoe.

STEWARDS REPORTS

H.Rogers, trainer of Un Des Flos (FR), reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his charge went wrong behind.

Additional reporting by Michael Graham