Geological bosses it for Leopardstown win

Following on from Custom Cut and Douglas Macarthur earlier, Geological again demonstrated what can be done from the front when springing a 20/1 surprise in the John R Fitzpatrick Agricultural Contractor Handicap at Leopardstown.

Shane Foley was in the plate on Damian English's charge and the five-year-old Rock Of Gibraltar gelding saw off all comers, eventually prevailing by three parts of a length and a nose from Korbous and Club Wexford

English said: "He just loves to gallop, and he was absolutely bouncing beforehand in the parade ring. Richard Hughes said to me the day we bought him if you can find his problems then he's a 90 plus horse.

"We'll probably wait now for all the premier handicaps. The only problem I have is keeping him and Tribal Path separated as I wouldn't like the two of them taking each other on from the front.

"Maybe he could go for one of the handicaps in Royal Ascot but he might need to be 96 to get in and that could mean running him again. We'll assess the situation and see what the handicapper does.

"Good to firm ground is probably ideal. I wouldn't be worried about good but will probably keep him off slow ground from now on."

The Stewards received a report from the Turf Club veterinary officer that, Il Piccolo Grande trained by G.M.Lyons, was a gelding, despite appearing on the card as a colt. Evidence was heard from the trainer concerned. Having considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the trainer was in breach of Regulation 8(2) and having considered his clean record in this regard, issued a fine of €130.

(AM & EM)