Trickey Trix outfoxes Made In The Woods

Made In The Woods had to settle for the runner-up berth for the fourth race in a row as he was outgunned by Trickey Trix on the run-in of the Clonmel Handicap Steeplechase over 2m7f.

Robbie Geoghegan was booked to take 7lb off well supported 9/4 favourite Made In The Woods and the pair attempted to make all and held a nice cushion throughout.

Their advantage was eroded after three out, however, they were still in front after the next. The six-year-old gelding slowed into the final fence and Trickey Trix didn't need an invite to shoot up the inside under Paddy O'Hanlon.

The 33/1 outsider was strong on the run-in as she put Made In The Woods away by a length and a quarter. Long-standing maiden Fox Le Bel (5/1) was back in third, beaten five lengths by the winner.

O'Hanlon said: "I was slightly worried ground-wise but I got her out, jumping away and she was in a good positive position. She had a run in Navan which gave her confidence and she never missed a beat today.

"She seemed to get through the ground well enough and, if she keeps her enthusiasm, there is fun to be had with her during the summer. Pat (Macken) is a great owner in the yard and is always down on Saturdays feeding carrots to the mare so I'm delighted to have a winner for him."

The Raceday Stewards requested a report from Dermot Anthony McLoughlin, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Trickey Trix, placed first, as compared with its recent steeplechase form. James Griffin, Authorised representative for Dermot Anthony McLoughlin reported that the yard had lost form in recent months but lately their runners had begun to show form again. Having considered the evidence the Raceday Stewards noted the content of the report.

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes