Pace-setting tactics suit Crawley's Mountain who goes in at 'a pony'

On his second start outside of maiden company Breesy Mountain popped up at odds of 25/1 to convincingly land the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle at Punchestown.

Danny Hand was in the plate for owner/trainer Shane Crawley, and the home-bred Kalanisi gelding made most to beat the gambled-on Glendaars Warrior by four and a half lengths.

Favourite Longtimesincejaspr was a moderate 8th but still had some chance of a place in the frame when falling at the last.

“He's a big lump of a horse with a big stride on him,” said Crawley.

“I thought there would be plenty of pace but there obviously wasn't. He was well schooled at home and Danny just made the running on him. It's grand when they win.

“He's a very tall lean horse so you wouldn't be running him too often and the ground is nice out there.

“His full-sister Sassy Diva wouldn't like it too heavy either. He'd like a bit of nice ground, he just would't want it bottomless.

“We were going to point him then we didn't and he has schooled over fences.”

J.P. O'Sullivan, rider of Sir Pimpernel trained by P.J. Rothwell, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount made a couple of mistakes.

The Stewards requested a report from Shane Crawley, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Breesy Mountain, placed first, as compared with its recent form. Mr. Crawley reported that a combination of a poor race, an easy lead and an enterprising ride helped to bring about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the report, the Stewards noted the explanation offered.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Fu's Island trained by P.Meany, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be coughing post race. Samples were taken for analysis.

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Fu's Island, ridden by N. Bashford, and trained by P.Meany.

Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. N. Bashford, stated that his instructions were to drop out and give his mount every chance to run well as she may lack race fitness. He ststed she gurged badly during the race and he held her together to get her homel.

Mr. MichaelP.Meany, stated that he was happy with the ride considering that the filly made a noise during the race, he added that she has had a number of training problem and has been of the track for a while.

The Stewards also received a report from the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer who stated that the animal was coughing post race.

Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations in relation to the running and riding of the horse.

They did however find N. Bashford in breach of Rule 213, for failing to report something that may have affected the performance of his horse and therefore suspended him for 1 raceday.

(GC & EM)