Loingseoir (blue) © Photo Healy Racing
Loingseoir bounced back to winning ways when clinging on to victory late on in the Treo Eile Handicap at Fairyhouse.
The Michael Grassick-trained gelding had gained his last victory at the Curragh in October 2022 and was sent to post an 11/1 shot today.
Danny Sheehy got a lovely run up the rail to lead inside the final furlong and his mount held on at the post as Fivecromwellplace finished off strongly to get within a head.
“He just got away with the ground. I actually drove up this morning to walk it with my wife Roisin,” said Grassick.
“In fairness to Fairyhouse they do a great job watering here, up here during the summer you always get real good ground. He just wants a bit of juice because he's a very heavy-shouldered horse.
“He's been dropping down, it's nearly two years since he's won and it's been a frustrating year. I know we haven't had the sunshine but the ground has been relatively quick for him all year.
“We've been biding our time a little bit with him. He's hopefully going to start getting his ground in the next couple of weeks.
“There is a race for him in the Curragh on Saturday, if we get a drop of rain.
“It was a great ride, he went the brave man's route and thankfully Billy (Lee) came off the rail for him.
“He actually won here over a mile-and-a-quarter in the past so he had a bit of track form. The only reason I came here is because I know they water so well and it's really good safe ground.”