Buckman Tavern and Gary Carroll (noseband) touch off Moon Daisy © Photo Healy Racing
Topweight Buckman Tavern (17/2 into 13/2 on the show) won the Booterstown Handicap in the colours of John Breslin for trainer Tony Martin.
There was a good tussle in the final furlong with Gary Carroll's mount just shading the verdict by a nose from Moon Daisy (4/1) who had got a good run up the inner to hold every chance.
The successful 5-year-old had some good form for Sir Mark Prescott a couple of years ago and had dropped 11lb since joining current connections last year.
“He's always shown us ability but unfortunately gave us a lot of problems,” said Martin.
“He had a lot of issues but hopefully we've turned a corner and we can motor on now. We've no plans but it's great to get that into him as he's been very frustrating.
“It's a great team of lads involved in him (co-owned, along with Breslin, by Mrs Paul Shanahan and Newtown Anner Stud) and unfortunately he's there a bit too long for it not to have worked out until tonight.
“He toughed it out up the straight, after being a bit strong and keen early, which was great.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
