Three-in-a-row for Sassaway

The remarkable story of the long-standing maiden, Sassaway (took 38 starts before getting off the mark) reached further heights today when on outing number six for Eamonn O'Connell she made it three-in-a-row when landing the opening Taste @Downroyal Handicap on Ulster Derby Day.

Speaking of remarkable, Patrickswell s bid for a four-timer in this race was a bold one. Ultimately though his draw in nine negated against him. The grey performed more than creditably when taking the third spot.

However, Declan McDonogh, deputising for the injured Fergal Lynch (brought down on Beat The Bell at Limerick last evening and broke his collarbone) got to the front on Sassaway a furlong out and she was always going to hold on from the fast-finishing Boughtforasong

"She's done grand and she's going the right way. Everything worked out lovely for her today. She's tough and we'll pick out something in three weeks for her.

"In fairness she ran into a good one at Dundalk (2nd to Phebes Wish in April)," said O'Connell.

He then quipped: "We have a good record here," – referring to the fact that Sassaway was following up a course win from the end of last month.

McDonogh meanwhile reported: "It's beautiful ground out there."

Of course Sassaway is owned by three of the Limerick hurlers - Shane Dowling, Gavin O'Mahony and Seanie Tobin – the Liiimerick Syndicate. The Shannonsiders had a famous win over Tipperary lately and they now have hopes of becoming Munster Champions very much in their minds.

Ian Brennan got 2 days for failing to take reasonable steps to avoid interference riding Patrickswell here.

The stewards deemed it to be careless riding and Sujet Bellagio (6th) suffered in the incident.

(MG & EM)