Spain rains on Speirling's parade

The Charles O'Brien trained Rain In Spain stayed on best to upset the odds-on favourite Speirling in the Carlsberg Maiden Hurdle.

A good fifth of eighteen at Thurles in October, the six-year-old daughter of Jeremy disappointed on her two starts since, and was beaten by over 100 lengths on her most recent start at Limerick.

Sent off at 14/1 this evening, the 88 rated bay was settled in mid-division by Paul Townend, taking closer order approaching two out.

She was soon short of room on the inner, but got the desired gap before the last, and was ridden to the front on the run-in, going on to score by a length and a half.

Speirling, who was returned the 4/7 favourite, looked set for victory when hitting the front before the last, but he found little off the bridle, and had to settle for second under Davy Russell for Pat Kelly. Yeats Mardy (10/3) completed the placings, staying on well to take third, another two lengths back.

Townend said afterwards: "Fair play to Charles he kept going with her. He always said that she hasn't produced what she shows at home. She jumps and she's had her day now."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Stewards requested a report from Charles O'Brien, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Rain In Spain, placed first, as compared with its recent run. Michael Cleary on behalf of the trainer reported that this filly returned to Limerick on the 26th July after a long break and appeared to drop herself out before becoming detached from the rest of the runners whereas today over a longer trip and on better ground she was up with the pace in a steadier gallop which in his opinion gave her encouragement and brought about the improved performance. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the content of the report. Furthermore, the Stewards fined Charles O'Brien E130 for failing to lodge the appropriate authorisation form appointing Michael Cleary as a representative at this meeting in accordance with the provisions of Rule 147 (v).

Additional reporting by Alan Magee