Khwarizmi defies big market drift

Khwarizmi was very easy to back but that didn't stop the 12/1 chance from coming out on top in the www.dundalkstadium.com Maiden (Plus 10 Race).

Drawn widest in fourteen the US-bred had the assistance of Pat Smullen for this five furlong heat.

With a visor replacing the blinkers he wore when second over track and trip four weeks back, David Marnane's Khwarizmi got up on the line to beat front-running Snow Patch by a head.

“He's done well. He's quite a lazy horse and coming out of stall 14 is not easy,” said Marnane.

“He's a nice horse. We bought him in America last year and I think whatever he does at two he'll be a nice horse next year. He has got a big frame and needs to fill in to it.

“That might nearly be it for this year. We might just bring him back next year and see how he gets on.

“I think he probably wants to step up a little bit in trip but he was sharp and this race was available.

“He tried hard. We had blinkers on him the last day but I thought that the horses went past him and he didn't know it until they were past him so we put the visor on him tonight.”

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Rego Park Lady ridden by R. Aguiar, and trained by Adrian Murray.

Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. R. Aguiar, stated that as this filly was retuning from an injury, his instructions were to jump her into the race and give her a good education without hurting her.

R. Aguair stated that in running his mount jumped into the race and settled well when held.

In the last 2 furlongs, R. Aguair attempted to find space to challenge but gaps closed on him and his mount held her head high.

Adrian Murray stated that Rego Park Lady had suffered a stress fracture in June and this was her first race since the injury.

He instructed R. Aguair to drop his filly into the race and to finish as strong as possible.

He further stated that he might have preferred if R. Aguair had given his charge a stronger ride.

The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that Rego Park Lady was post race normal.

Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanation offered and advised R. Aguair to ensure that he is seen to be more forceful in future.

(GC & EM)