Duchess Ravenwaves moves clear © Photo Healy Racing
It has been a golden March for trainer Gavin Cromwell and the rich vein of form continued as Duchess Ravenwaves put manners on the opposition in the nightcap at Navan.
The seven-year-old mare turned division two of the mile and five handicap into a procession as she drew right away in the final furlong to easily win by six lengths at 9/2.
Jockey Chris Hayes said: “The owner was very confident and he was right. Gavin said to get her into a rhythm, don’t push or pull and wherever you land swing out in the straight.
“It all worked out as I wanted and she travelled well. The ground is probably the key and I’m sure there is another day in her.
“She tipped up over fences the last day when Johnny (Moore) felt that she would win, and fitness is a big thing on that ground.” Room To Roam was best of the rest at 33/1 and was seven and a half lengths clear of third-placed Custers Mistake (12/1). Pour Sioux was another two and a half lengths back in fourth at 40/1.
The Stewards enquired into an incident soon after the turn into the straight involving Lusis Naturea (GB), ridden by J.M. Sheridan, unplaced, Room To Roam, ridden by Siobhan Rutledge, placed second and Custers Mistake, ridden by G.P. Halpin, placed third, where it appeared that both Lusis Naturea (GB) and Room To Room received interference. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. J.M. Sheridan stated that he was riding wide when he got tight for room. Siobhan Rutledge stated that she was riding widest of all and in line with the outside rail when receiving a bump from her inner which unbalanced her mount. G.P. Halpin stated that in his opinion his mount was leaning against Lusis Naturea (GB) and he did not feel that he caused any interference. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that the incident was caused by G.P. Halpin riding carelessly, this being a breach of Rule 212. Having taken his previous record into consideration, the Stewards suspended G.P. Halpin for two race days.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
