Line Out 'getting the hang' of chasing game

Line Out followed-up on his recent Ballinrobe success, as he got the better of Cooldine Bog in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Handicap Chase.

With conditions deteriorating, just seven of the twelve who set out for this two-mile-five-furlong contest managed to complete the course.

Successful on his seventh try over the larger obstacles, the John Kiely trained gelding is clearly getting the hang of things.

Sent off the 4/1 favourite, the son of Shantou jumped left at the fourth and received a reminder.

A much closer third from four out, he was impeded at the next, recovering well to challenge at the second last where he pecked on landing.

In front before the last, a slow jump there opened the door for Cooldine Bog and after a good tussle up the run-in, just half a length split the pair at the line.

Cooldine Bog was returned at 8/1 under Darragh O'Keeffe (replacing Cathal Landers) for Andy Slattery, while Demain Des L'aube (10s early, returned 9/2) was a further twenty-three lengths back in third.

O'Regan said of the Lillingston family owned winner: "The ground is gone soft but he got away with it. He had a good look at the last because he was on his own.

"He was steady to get going over fences but it's testament to John Kiely and his team for getting him up to this level.

"He was never really travelling. He takes a while to warm to his jumping but he's getting the hang of it. He'll be better on better ground hopefully."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Stewards interviewed D. J. O'Keeffe, rider of Cooldine Bog, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards found D. J. O'Keeffe in breach of Regulation 10.3.(g), excessive frequency. Having considered D. J. O'Keeffe's record in this regard the Stewards cautioned him on this occasion.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee