Shot completes his hat-trick of wins

Despite idling on the run-in 9/2 favourite Take A Shot completed his hat-trick in the Ballyleague Handicap Hurdle for his trainer Francis Flood with Declan Bates in the saddle.

On his first start over 2m 4f, the 7yo son of Old Vic recorded his second career victory at Tipperary in early June. He then followed up on that win over the same distance at Roscommon just over a week later.

Having his first run since then today, he was waited with in mid-division before making progress to track the leaders into straight. He was then on terms, travelling well three out before just getting to the front at the last.

He stayed on well under pressure on the run-in and despite idling just done enough to hold off 16/1 shot Oxalido by a neck at the line.

The pair went ten lengths clear of the third who was Tico at 33/1 while Kirbybroguelatern completed the placings a further five lengths back in fourth at 10/1.

Fran Flood Junior said after the race: "We were worried about the depth of the ground being an issue today, but Declan (Bates) kept him out good and wide on the best ground.

"He will go for a 0-116 rated race next but he might lack a bit of class. Listowel is a possible but he was tired after that and we will just have to wait and see."

Donal Murphy