Glor Na Mara seen here winning at Dundalk© Photo Healy Racing
Jim Bolger suffered the disappointment of his Guineas favourite Parish Hall having to miss that engagement, but there was small compensation later on in the day at the Curragh as Glor Na Mara took the Emirates Equestrian Federation Handicap under Kevin Manning.
Manning had to switch to the outer to get a run on the four-year-old whilst Dandy Boy veered left when getting to the front. However he had every chance inside the last as he battled it out with Glor Na Mara, a neck separating them at the line.
Bolger said: "We know where he was a couple of years ago when he was third to Frankel.
"We never found any reason why his form tapered off but we've not given up hope and hopefully we'll get him back in time.
"He could go for the Ballycorus Stakes at Leopardstown.
"As for Parish Hall there will be no update until Wednesday or Thursday.
"Hopefully we'll see good improvement. He is on antibiotics. We'll regroup with him and we could try to get him to Royal Ascot but that would be doubtful."
Well-backed favourite Croi An Or could only beat two home.
The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Jamesie ridden by C O’Donoghue, and trained by Mr David Marnane. Evidence was heard from the rider and trainer concerned. Mr Marnane, trainer, stated that his instructions to the rider were to get cover early as the horse can often run free and then to get into the race thereafter and to do his best. C O’Donoghue, rider, confirmed the trainer’s instructions, stating that he has ridden this horse before and that he often takes a keen hold. He had got him covered up early as instructed but when looking for a split between runners his horse had raced too closely onto heels preventing him from steering him into a position to challenge. He was forced to sit as no opportunity arose to deliver a challenge and eventually in the final furlong when the race was gone beyond him he left his mount alone. The trainer further stated that this horse is ridden in a crossed noseband and a chifney bit due to being keen and he felt the horse may have also been a little revved up by his recent run in Chester. He expressed himself satisfied with the ride but in conclusion felt that a reversion back to seven furlongs may be of benefit to his charge. The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that Jamesie was post race normal.
Having viewed the video of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations. (GC & EM)
