Ballyorban stays on well to beat eventual runner-up, Versilia Gal (orange and white cap) at Cork© Photo Healy Racing
There wasn't much room to manoeuvre at stages of the opening Mallow Town Summer BBQ Evening July 12th Handicap at Cork. That'll have mattered little to backers and connections of the Billy Lee ridden Ballyorban though as the Cape Cross top-weight prevailed by half a length.
Ken Condon 's Ballyorban got to the front a furlong out and made the best of his way home. Versilia Gal meanwhile, had to be switched out widest of all before coming home well to take the runner-up berth. She can be considered unlucky.
Condon explained: "The ones I ran at the Curragh last Sunday seemed to be quite forward and I was hoping he was fit enough coming here.
"He travelled very well and Billy said he was doing enough in the final furlong.
"He'll get an entry in the Guineas Trial at Leopardstown in two weeks and I think he'll stay a turning mile." (AM & EM)