Jockey Sean Flanagan, owner Stephen McCarthy, centre, and trainer William Durkan © Photo Healy Racing
Mind The Pennies stayed on stoutly to win Gowran Park’s two mile handicap hurdle at 14/1 for William Durkan and Sean Flanagan. Ontheground suffered a fatal fall when leading at the second last. His jockey, Pat Foley, was able to walk to the ambulance at the side of the track. Sir Ector the 7/2 favourite, was hampered by that fall as he had travelled well into second by the penultimate flight. Although the favourite recovered his momentum, Flanagan had worked Mind The Pennies into the lead coming to the final hurdle.
The six-year-old closed the door on any ideas Sir Ector had of winning by forging on strongly to the line. He had two lengths in hand at the finish.
“The ground suited him. It was too hard last time and we knew he was in good form,” William Durkan said.
“I was afraid he wouldn't get the two miles but he got it alright. I had my first winner here back in 1977 with a horse called Paddy Tudor, who was 50/1!” Swantykay was six lengths behind Sir Ector in third at 4/1 (from 7s in the morning).
The Stewards received a report from Mr. W. Fleming, Turf Club Clerk of the Scales, regarding the fact that R.T. Dunne, rider of Colla Pier (who finished fourth), weighed in at 2.2lbs overweight. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that the rider was in breach of Rule 231 and having
considered his record, suspended him for two race days.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
