Kennedy conjures winning surge from Global Energy

Global Energy got Sheila Lavery and Keithen Kennedy off the mark on opening day of the Flat season in the Curragh.

The 10/1 chance ran in race seven, the mile handicap, and had the leader Chicago Storm in his sights in second approaching the final couple of furlongs.

Global Energy reeled in the leader with a furlong and a-half to go and set sail in the final furlong.

The pursuers were struggling to bridge the gap and Kennedy kept hi s mount rolling as they hit the line with a length and a-half to spare.

The placings were occupied by Mogwli (14/1), Magic Charm (22/1) and See Me Through (20/1) in second, third and fourth respectively.

Lavery said: "We knew he was fit as he had a good run in the Up The Yard challenge race at Punchestown and I think he’s got a bit faster.

“He’s won over a mile and a quarter and a bit further, but he’s improved with age. I think he can run over anything from a mile up to a mile and three.

“I don’t think he’s ground dependent, and I can play with the trip. He’s a real nice horse to look forward to.

“I’m sorry for Robbie (Colgan), but I wanted to take weight off him.”

The Raceday Stewards interviewed J. Coen, rider of sixth-placed Barrier concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who accepted he was in breach of the regulation and apologised. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that J. Coen was in breach of Regulation 10.3.g, excessive frequency, and having considered his record (clean record) in this regard the Raceday Stewards suspended J. Coen for three race days.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee