Rideonastar jumps the last under Robbie Colgan© Photo Healy Racing
Dual Flat winner Rideonastar got off the mark on his fifth start over flights, taking the third at Cork, the Follow Us On Twitter Rated Novice Hurdle.
Previously trained by Ralph Beckett, Brendan Powell and Mick Halford, the son of Manduro finished down the field on his handicap debut at Limerick last month.
Sent off a 14/1 chance this evening (from 16s on-course), the Karl Thornton trained seven-year-old was settled behind the leaders by Robbie Colgan.
He was pushed along from four out, and came with his challenge at the next. He hit the front before two out, and went a few lengths clear before the final flight, keeping on well under pressure on the run-in to score by four lengths. Quamino (7/2) filled the runner-up spot under Bryan Cooper for Paul Nolan, while the well-backed favourite Torcello (12s last night and from 9/2 to 3s on-course) was a further eight lengths back in third under Robbie Power for Andrew McNamara. Port Rashid was still in with every chance when falling two out. Thankfully he and his partner Jody Townend were quickly up after the fall.
Thornton said afterwards: "He had a good run in a maiden hurdle at Fairyhouse and then didn't handle the ground at Limerick. He's a grand horse and a step up in trip could improve him as well.
"I left him a novice for this season and he'll be alright and will pay his way.
"He likes that ground and doesn't want it too fast."
STEWARDS REPORTS
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Azua Emery (FR), trained by Gordon Elliott, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to have evidence of bilateral nasal discharge, when examined post race.
The Stewards received a report from the Clerk of the Scales, Ms. Aveena O'Keeffe, regarding the failure of Gavin Peter Brouder, rider of Leap Dearg placed fifth, to weigh in after this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned, in the presence of J.A. Nash, trainer. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards disqualified Leap Derg from fifth place under the provisions of Rule 230.
Furthermore, the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Rule 227 and having considered his clean record in this regard, they ordered that he forfeit his riding fee and cautioned him concerning his future responsibilities in this regard.
Amended result:
First: Rideonastar,
Second: Quamino (GER),
Third: Torcello,
Fourth: Banjo
Fifth: All Good Things
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
