In-form Tithonus goes in again

Denis Hogan's Tithonus supplemented his Galway success with a victory in Cork under Gary Halpin.

The five-year-old gelding was due to carry 10-3 in this six-furlong handicap but Halpin lessened his burden by 3lbs. He still was the joint top-weight on 10 stone. He carried the mandatory 5lb penalty for his Ballybrit win three days ago.

The pair were always in the front rank before going for home racing towards the final quarter of a mile. Cappadocia and Ronan Whelan tried to go with them but couldn't get on terms and were a length and a half adrift at the line.

The winner shortened from 4/1 to 7/4 before racing commenced although there were three non runners in this race. He was returned the 6/4 favourite with Cappadocia a 9/2 chance. Count Of Carabass completed the places at 7/1.

Gary Halpin said: "He's straightforward, he jumped and travelled away. I spoke to Denis last night and he said he was in good shape. He was doubtful this morning about whether he was going to run or not because of the ground. The ground is fine, he got away with it. He could be a bit better on better ground.

"He's in good shape and a good frame of mind. Those handicappers are good when they are well in themselves. He has won over six in the past, his best trip is six. He loves to be ridden good and forward. He came out of Galway well and we got the weaker of the divide and took advantage of it."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes