No getting to tough Rocket A less than fluent leap at the last threatened to derail leader Rolling Rocket's bid for glory in the Goffs Punchestown Invitational Sale Handicap Chase. To his credit though, Paddy Kennedy's mount found more when challenged to gain the day in the two miler. Rolling Rocket was adding to his Naas gains from fifty four days back and indeed he may now return to that Kildare track on Sunday to bid for a hat-trick. The well-backed Mount Brandon got there with every chance after Rolling Rocket's error, but the victor fought that one, and Kates Benefit (ridden by Kennedy's brother Jack) off by three parts of a length and the same. Winning trainer Stephen Ryan said: "I was a bit nervous that the ground might be too heavy but he seemed to handle it alright. "He's been in great order since Naas, and has been absolutely hopping off the ground. If he's okay he may go to Naas on Sunday." The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Sir Abbot, trained by Robert Tyner, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be clinically abnormal post race. B.J. Geraghty, rider of Sir Abbot, trained by Robert Tyner, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount jumped the first fence very well but never travelled from thereon and was pulled up when tailed off. (AM & EM)
