Milestone doesn't Miss over fences

Tim Doyle was left thinking about what might have been after Mallowney came down two out in the Arkle at Leopardstown last Sunday. He saw the same silks, those of his wife Claire, carried to victory by Martin Burke aboard Milestone Miss in the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Mares Beginners Chase at Thurles. Killtilane Rose made a bold bid from the front in this two and three quarter miler but she was mown down late by the sweet jumping fencing newcomer Milestone Miss who got up to score by a length and a half.

Five to one chance Sugar Bullet wasn't far away when slipping on landing and getting rid of Bryan Cooper at the fourth last.

Doyle commented: "I thought it was a good performance for a mare first time out over fences and she jumped great.

"She just lacked a little bit over hurdles and it's great to get a win with her.

"She'll go for a mares novice chase here now in a few weeks time."

As regards Mallowney Doyle reported: "He's fine but I gave the steering wheel a bit of a kicking that evening.

"Andrew (McNamara, rider) said he had plenty left in the tank. He's a horse that probably just needs a bit of light at his fences. The Flying Bolt (at Navan on February 16) will be next for him."

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Carrigeen Lonicera at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal post race normal.

D.N.Russell, rider of Ichey Feet trained by Eoin Doyle, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount never travelled.

(TW & EM)