Halls Bridges gap to success in 'points'

Well-known in greyhound racing circles with his Springwell dogs, Athlone owner Denis Hannon has also enjoyed success with his horses and he struck when the Shane Ryder-trained home-bred Halls Bridge prevailed under local rider Robbie Moran in the Selskar Handicap Chase at Wexford.

This Tuam point-to-point scorer didn't go off without market support on his handicap bow and Moran tracked the leaders on the 11/1 shot (around 16s this morning).

Well-backed favourite Tailors Hill threatened danger to Halls Bridge (had taken over two out) from before the last but the Brian Boru gelding pulled out more to score by a length and a half.

"He won a point-to-point. After the last day I said to Shane to put a tongue tie on him and it might help him. It probably did help him.

"When we jumped the second last he went on. It probably wasn't a great race," reflected Moran.

The St Anne's team who won the Wexford Senior County Football Final on Sunday were in the parade ring afterwards. St Anne's star Redmond Barry had the cup filled and he promptly doused Moran.

The Stewards requested a report from Shane Kieran Ryder, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Halls Bridge, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that a combination of running in his first handicap, the application of a tongue strap, and today's favourable ground conditions, had in his opinion brought about today's improved performance. Having considered the report, the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

(DM & EM)