Lake George in command at Tipperary© Photo Healy Racing
Lake George made no mistake when powering away from his rivals in the extended seven furlong handicap at Tipperary.
Daniel Redmond raced him in second as Clear Focus set the fractions. The leader came off the bridle approaching the straight and Lake George travelled well to assume the lead with over a quarter of a mile to travel.
Redmond went for the whip over a furlong out and the eight-year-old gelding picked up well and opened up a lead of a couple of lengths on the pursuers.
He strode away in the latter stages to win by three lengths at 5/1. Clear Focus (16/1) kept on for second with Windsorlot (20/1) and Lightening Stricks (8/1 from 12s) completing the placings in this 16-runner handicap.
“The difference today was the ground,” handler James Barrett said.
“The last day in Gowran they watered and, while it was officially good to firm, there was a dig in it and his wheels were spinning.
“He's a good honest horse and wins every year. That's job done again.
“All year we've been waiting and picking races for him and then the rain would come. He's in at the Curragh at the weekend but if the rain comes he probably won't run.”
This was Lake George's seventh career victory.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
