Gamigin punt proves spot on

Just clipped in from 4s into 7/2 on track but supported down from fancy prices earlier Gamigin landed a gamble in the Smiddy's Pub Mullingar Handicap Hurdle at Kilbeggan for Noel Kelly in the hands of Oran McGill.

We looked set for an exciting conclusion as three still held chances going to the last. Gamigin was much too strong on the run-in though, and he went on to account for Slieve Bearnagh and Sayitfirst by three and a quarter lengths and nine lengths.

"It was a return to form but we fancied him at Roscommon when he didn't left himself down on the ground," explained Kelly.

"He ran a good race though and was only beaten fourteen lengths.

"Oran said he just didn't feel it the last day and was jarry a wee bit.

"He said he travelled today and was different gravy.

"We fancied him as he said if he had a cut in the ground the last day he'd have been thereabouts.

"We walked the track and they did a serious job watering today.

"Bar Slieve Bearnagh it was an ordinary race, but he had gone up 20Ibs and I've never won 3-in-a-row in my life.

"He (Gamigin) had risen up the weights last year but had slipped down a wee bit recently."

The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident approximately 150 yards from the finish involving Slieve Bearnagh, ridden by Mr J.M. Halford, placed second, and Gamigin, ridden by Mr O. McGill, placed first, where it appeared horses came close together. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.

The Raceday Stewards requested a report from Noel C. Kelly, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Gamigin, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that this horse found the going at Roscommon last time too fast and appreciated the easier ground today in what he felt was a poorer race. Having considered the report the Raceday Stewards noted the explanation offered.

(TW & EM)