Kinirons dedicates Downpatrick win to sadly departed McCluskey

In-foal Galway festival Flat scorer Hidden Land signed off on her racing career when gaining a fourth Downpatrick success in the Mighty Women Awards Mares Handicap Hurdle.

Kevin Sexton got the fractions spot on, dictating from the front on the Andrew Kinirons-trained top-weight.

Flicking her tail Cobra Queen gave chase up the run-in but couldn't bridge the gap.

Third placer, the lightly-weighted My Policy finished out her race well. There was no disputing the superiority of Hidden Land though, as she closed things out by three and a half lengths and six lengths.

"That's her finished now, she's in foal to In Swoop. It is great that Peter (Byrne, owner) was here today," said Kinirons.

"She was first reserve in Galway las week and he didn't come over because it didn't look like she was getting in. We got in last minute, so we are delighted.

"She's unbelievable, she has seven wins for me. She loves it here. She's keen and she is tough. She is just able to get a breather here and is easier on the jockey.

"It is actually 17 years ago today that I rode a bumper winner (on Luck's A Lady) for Neill McCluskey who died last month. I'd like to dedicate that win to him. It is very sad, he was a lovely fella."

Following a report from the IHRB Starter Mr. D. Cullen, the Raceday Stewards wished to interview Rachael Blackmore, rider of Cobra Queen, regarding the start of this race. However, as Rachael Blackmore had left the racecourse prior to ten minutes after the winner alright had been announced as required under Rule 229(v), the Raceday Stewards referred the matter on to a Senior Racing Official.

(MG & EM)