The Blue Panther bounds clear under Roche

The Blue Panther (14/1) made most to win the second split of the James Collins Memorial Handicap. 

Leigh Roche 's mount, owned by Julianne McNally, was nicely clear turning for home and kept on well to beat Kodiac Prince by a length and a-quarter. 

Three times a winner for Michael Mulvany, the six-year-old was returning from nearly ten months off and was making his first start for trainer Jennifer Lynch. 

Assistant trainer Barry Cash said: "He was doing everything grand at home but we were hopeful more than confident as he is an older horse and has had plenty runs. He has dropped down the ratings though and whatever issues he had, was a 92-rated horse at one stage. 

"He had form around this track in the past, he was fresh and Leigh gave him a great ride. He jumped out, dictated and got everything his own way in front - it is very hard for others to make up ground when you get a free lead around here.

"The owners are local to me and they rang Jenny one day and asked her to take the horse."

Quotes from Thomas Weekes