Friendless Wish takes Naas opener

The easy to back Vinnie's Wish landed the opener at Naas, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden.

Fourth on his first two starts, the John McConnell trained colt opened on-course at 10s, drifting out to a starting price of 16/1.

Bumped on leaving the stalls, the son of Most Improved was soon settled in mid-division by Donagh O'Connor.

He closed right up on the leaders with two furlongs left to race, and was ridden to challenge on the outer over a furlong from home.

The Derek Kierans owned victor had a good battle with newcomer Katie Cruel in the closing stages, with just a head separating them at the line.

The runner-up was returned at 25/1 under Conor McGovern for Alan Fleming, while the 11/10 favourite Betsy Trotter was a further half a length back in third, with Pat Smullen in the saddle for Dermot Weld.

McConnell said afterwards: "I eventually got the trip right. He travelled beautifully the last day but just didn't get home and we said we'd drop him back to six as he has loads of speed. He's was a breeze up horse.

"He did it well there and we'll put him away and hopefully he'll improve again next year. I'm delighted for everyone at home and for the owner who has been very loyal to me."

The winner was bought for E70,000 at the Goresbridge Flat Breeze-Up Sale in May.

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Stewards enquired into possible interference inside the final 150 yards involving Groovy Jazz ridden by R.P. Cleary, placed sixth, Betsey Trotter ridden by P.J. Smullen, placed third and Katie Cruel (FR), ridden by C.J. McGovern, placed second, where it appeared that Katie Cruel (FR) drifted and interfered with Groovy Jazz . Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards made no alteration to the Judges placing's and took no further action. Mr Pierce G. Molony, Acting Steward did not attend this enquiry.

R.P. Cleary, rider of Groovy Jazz trained by Luke Comer, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was checked close to the finish.

G.P. Halpin, rider of Sagittarius Rising trained by C.W.J. Farrell, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung very badly when he came under pressure.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee