Hoban's Bellewstown win tinged with sadness The first split of the Awards And Gifts Handicap at Bellewstown went off seven minutes late after Footsteps At Dawn got loose. It was principally the layers that were most satisfied on completion of the near mile heat which went to 25/1 chance War Room. Conor Hoban rode the nine-year-old for the Garry Fleming and Niall Partnership, and they got home by two and a half lengths from Bouquet Garni. The Shane Duffy-trained Holy Roman Emperor gelding was never far away from his stall one draw, and a similar remark applies to Bouquet Garni. Gambled-on favourite Path Of Silver (11/2 into 3/1) could manage only fifth. "He's a solid horse in Dundalk and probably wants top of the ground. The last day in Gowran the ground went on us," said Duffy. "He was down to a very winnable mark but has had a lot of problems in the last year. Hopefully we have them ironed out and it's onwards and upwards now for Dundalk over the winter. "I'd like to dedicate the win to Conor Hoban's uncle who died two days ago, and I'm delighted for Conor to ride this winner." The Stewards informed Shane Nolan, trainer that Footsteps At Dawn, would have to be recertified before being declared to run from stalls again. The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Nisior Donn, trained by Gavin Cromwell, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be blowing hard post race. The Stewards requested a report from S.M.Duffy, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of War Room, placed first, as compared with its recent form. The trainer reported that this horse runs best on good ground. The last day at Gowran there was an ease in the going following showers which didn't suit his charge. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered. (AM & EM)
