Halsafari delivers under James O'Sullivan© Photo Healy Racing
Halsafari and James O'Sullivan collared a tiring Great Khan to win the extended two mile one rated novice chase in Limerick.
Neither horse was fluent at the last but Halsafari got away from it the better and grabbed Great Khan on the run-in.
The latter had no more to give and the winner put seven and a half lengths on him.
There were plenty of bets landed on Michael Bowe's Halsafari who was as big as 28/1 in morning trading before going off at 6/1. The runner-up was a 5/1 chance.
Owner John Bowe said: “Jaime Sommers was Solerina’s first winner and this lad (also out of Solerina) has won three races now.
“He only ran two days ago (when fifth in a handicap chase at Limerick) and the first thing Brian Hayes said when he came in was that he needed the run. So it’s thanks to Brian and he’s improved a tonne.
“The tactics worked out well also as Western Sea went a good gallop and he seems to be better when he gets a good gallop and he can find his way into it.
“He’s a natural chaser and it’s some turnaround from two days ago when we were so disappointed.
“We were told that our horses heeded to be worked harder and get them fitter and that’s what we are trying to do.”
The Stewards interviewed J.P. O'Sullivan, rider of Halsafari, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that J.P. O'Sullivan was in breach of Regulation 10.3(g)(frequency) and having considered his record, they suspended him for two race days.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
