New Vocation (Joey Sheridan) beats Royal Red Persian (Chris Hayes)© Photo Healy Racing
Division one of the Crowne Plaza Hotel Leading Jockey & Trainer Championship Handicap saw Joey Sheridan’s many admirers rewarded with a 33/1 winner as the star apprentice triumphed in the Dundalk opener on New Vocation
Twice previously successful for her breeder, Jim Bolger, including at this track and trip, today for the Keith Clarke yard the Vocalised mare chased the leaders, before improving into second travelling well two furlongs out.
Ridden to lead a furlong and a half out New Vocation stayed on well in the final furlong to beat Royal Red Persian by three parts of a length. There was just a head to Quiet Desire in third.
“She got badly hampered the last day, turning in, when we thought she had a chance,” said Clarke.
“We had to freshen her up and change things around. She's probably back down to a nice winning mark too.
“Joey gave her a fine ride and a lot of the credit has to go to my girlfriend Sarah (Dixon) as she does a lot of work helping me with the horses, there is just the two of us.
“She is her pride and joy and she rides her every day.
“Going to the beach has freshened her up as well, it's something different. She's as fit as a flee.
“We're looking forward to what happens next now. We'll have to see what the handicapper gives her but we got the win out of her now anyway and that's all that matters.”
Sam Ewing, rider of Treble Cone (GB) trained by Gerard Keane, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung left.
W.T. Byrne, rider of Tio Esteban (FR) trained by W.J. Martin, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount lost it's action in the straight.
The Stewards requested a report from Keith Henry Clarke, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of New Vocation, placed first, as compared with its recent form. Keith Henry Clarke stated that his charge had been dropped in on its recent runs and a change of tactics, to being ridden more prominently today, had helped to bring about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation given.
The Stewards requested a report from P. A. Fahy, Trainer of Dani's Boy in relation to the late arrival of his charge into the parade ring. Having considered the report, the Stewards advised P. A. Fahy of his responsibilities in this regard.
(GC & EM)
