Rusty Halo shows his ability

Rusty Halo shed his maiden tag in the two mile handicap when providing a 14/1 upset at Wexford for trainer Paul Flynn and five-pound claimer Ronan Whelan.

The grey four-year-old son of recently-deceased Verglas came through to lead inside the final furlong and won by three parts of a length. Gudnis Gracious Me put in a sterling effort in second as the mare made all and gamely refused to be headed until giving best late on. She was returned at 8/1.

6/1 chance Formal Bid completed the placings a further length and a half away. King Of Redfield was sent off the 9/2 favourite for Shark Hanlon and Pat Smullen, but he proved very disappointing in a well-beaten 14th of the 15 runners. However, he was found to be lame when examined post race.

Michael Graham