Review SLIGO 9TH AUG

Permit holders took the limelight on day two of the August meeting as Jimmy Cullen saddled his first winner with Harvest Time.

Ruby Walsh's mount justified favouritism in the 2m4f maiden hurdle, overcoming a mistake at the last to beat Culmore Native by 2L.

'I have held a permit for two and a half years, and have three horses in training', said Cullen, who trains about five miles from Ballina.

Ballinrobe publican Michael Flannery was also on the mark when Theres No Doubt stayed on gamely in the straight under Barry Cash to hold My Native Land by 1L in the 2m maiden hurdle.

'I trained a winner about ten years ago, but let the permit lapse for four years before taking one out again this summer. I have three in training, and the other two have both been placed', said Flannery.

Thomond O'Mara recorded his first double when the Wayne Lordan-ridden pair Langkawi Island and Kiptanui scored at the combined odds of 55/1.

The Bansha handler is planning to send Langkawi Island over hurdles following a 1L verdict over Beyond Borders in the 12f rated race.

The son of Never So Bold was confirmed the winner only after a stewards enquiry into an incident at the home turn where Kesh Kumay (fourth) was slightly hampered.

Kiptanui swooped late under Lordan in the 10f handicap to touch off Tango Pasion and Talarive in an exciting three horse photo-finish.

Anna Bellerio appreciated the testing conditions when taking the handicap hurdle in fine style under Garrett Cotter, drawing clear two out to beat Shabob by 8L.

'She handled the soft ground better than the rest. I would say it was a poor race, but it's nice to get a win with her', said trainer Donie Hassett.

Landofheartsdesire (Pat Shanahan) justified odds-on support in the 2yo claiming race when beating Milton Star, who veered about inside the final furlong, by 1/2L.