Landmark double for King

Connor King partnered his first double at odds of 83.5/1 when Sabaidee readily landed the Hibernia Steel Products Handicap at Bellewstown.

The North Cork teenager, who has made a big impression since graduating from the pony racing circuit to the track in the past 12 months, was following up on the success of He’s Got Rhythm just over half-an-hour earlier.

King (16) sent the John Murphy-trained filly to the front early in the straight and she really appreciated the mile and three quarters stamina test drawing right away in the final furlong.

The 12/1 chance had seven lengths to spare over Ainm Spartacus (12/1) at the line, with top-weight Viva Diva (8/1) another length and three quarters away in third. Montagnard (16/1) completed the placings in fourth.

Champion apprentice Ronan Whelan luckily walked away after being unseated on the bend with just under a circuit to run when his mount Crystal Earth jinked away from the railing.

A delighted King, now on the ten winner mark for the season, said “That’s brilliant. You don’t expect these things to happen.

“She travelled well and went everywhere I wanted her to go. I got there a bit soon but she kept on well.”