Farmer well prepared by Shark

Clondaw Farmer rounded off the card in style for favourite backers (the third winning market leader in succession) when he triumphed in the Guinness Legacy Flat Race at Galway.

Patrick Mullins' mount was hard pressed to keep the challenge of locally-trained outsider Blueprint Bob at bay, but he did enough to prevail by a short head.

Winning trainer John 'Shark' Hanlon said: "He fought back well. I'll have to speak to the Mees (Clondaw Farmer is owned by Mrs Annette Mee) but he might come back here for a winners bumper in September.

"This fella is a chaser but he'll jump hurdles first.

"The horse that was third here on Monday (Old Storm) will come back here for a bumper on Saturday."

Patrick Mullins revealed: "I was worried for about five strides but after turning in when he heard the crowd I said to myself you have more left.

"I'm delighted to have a winner for the Mees. They used to babysit me when I was a bit smaller!

"This is not really a bumper horse but he has the makings of a good chaser."

The Stewards interviewed Mr D.L. Queally, rider of Blueprint Bob, 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 were of the opinion that Mr D.L. Queally was in breach of R10(3)(f) by using his whip with excessive frequency and consequently cautioned him having taken his good previous record into consideration.

The Stewards interviewed Mr P.W. Mullins, rider of Clondaw Farmer, 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 were of the opinion that Mr P.W. Mullins was in breach of R10(3)(f) by using his whip with excessive force and frequency and consequently suspended him for 2 racedays having taken his previous record into consideration.

(TW & EM)