Murray and Flanagan strike again

After their success with Bilbo Bagins at Navan last Monday, Adrian Murray and Sean Flanagan teamed up for another win in the Horse and Jockey Handicap Hurdle at Thurles, Napoleon Blue doing the business for the in-form trainer/jockey combination.

In first-time cheek-pieces, the half-brother to 2009 Coral Cup winner, Nineteenth Minute, stepped up on a poor effort last time at Navan, just over two months back.

Napoleon Blue (7s out to 8s) was backed at bigger prices earlier, and the point-to-point victor eventually found his best form on the racecourse proper to defeat Sophie's Best by half a length.

"We knew it was in him but he had a disappointing year last year and hopefully it has turned around now," said part owner Tony McLoughlin.

"Adrian's barn seems to be coming in to form and we also had a winner with Bilbo Bagins at Navan on Monday. Adrian is laying on Miami beach right now but he is probably watching it!"

P. Townend, rider of Be My Dream trained by J.R.Finn, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount finished lame.

The Stewards requested a report from Adrian Murray, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Napoleon Blue, placed first, as compared with its recent form.

The trainer's representative, Mr. T. Hollingsworth, reported that this yard is now back in form having had a winner recently. The horse appreciated the good ground and won what was probably an ordinary contest. Having considered the report the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Be My Dream, trained by J.R.Finn, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be lame post race.

(TW & EM)