Local success as Proleek prevails under Mulligan

Local trainer Michael Rice claimed the William Hill Top Price Guarantee Handicap with Proleek Prince

After a breakthrough success at Punchestown in September, the Palavicini four-year-old had failed to make an impact in recent starts, finishing seventh of 18 to Sylkie at Galway on Monday last.

Turned out again quickly, the 72 rated victor touched 20s early before eventually going off a 9/1 chance under apprentice Rory Mulligan.

Prominent early and in front after quarter of a mile, the Slieve Foye Syndicate-owned bay was a few lengths clear when ridden with over a furlong to go, keeping on well from there to win by a length and a half.

Slow into stride, Letiza (5/1) done well to finish second under apprentice title chasing Wayne Hassett, while Pier Pressure (9/2f) was a further two and a quarter lengths back in third.

"It was a lovely performance, he's as tough as nails," Rice, who also bred the winner, reflected.

"The only worry was that after running in Galway that it might be a bit much for him but he hasn't missed a feed all week.

"That's his distance, I think he'll get a mile-and-one or a mile-and-two but a mile-and-a-half is maybe just a bit too far for him.

"7lb off his back helped and he (Rory Mulligan) is a great chap. I've been waiting to get him for a while now and I'll be getting him for another few."

STEWARDS REPORT

M.W Hassett, rider of Letiza, trained by Henry de Bromhead, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount acted up in the stalls.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson