On The Sod now four from four

On The Sod added to three point-to-point wins to remain unbeaten in the Boardsmill Sires Maiden Hunters Chase at Downpatrick today.

With Cheltenham Kim Muir hero Rob James aboard, On The Sod added further hunter chase success to trainer David Christie’s recent record.

The County Fermanagh operator has been on the mark in this sphere this season already, with Winged Leader, Some Man and Dylrow.

Here On The Sod justified 7/4 favouritism by fourteen lengths from 100/1 shot, Castlebawn

Castlebawn’s trainer, Colin McBratney, had a winner earlier on the programme with Benefit North

An eight-year-old by Ask, On The Sod, also owned by Christie, tracked the leaders and he disputed the lead five out.

He made a slight mistake three out and he was pushed along at the next.

Leading before the last the progressive type stayed on well under hands and heels inside the final furlong.

"He's kind of a very underestimated horse. He's shuffly and not a great mover and a very plain, workmanlike horse," said Christie.

"When the ground gets good, and it is just borderline for him now, I'd have to stop with him and that would be it. You couldn't run him on good ground.

"That's four from four now. He's just a tremendously strong horse - he just gallops and gallops. That hill is made for him.

"He actually would be far better going left-handed where he won at Kirkistown (point-to-point) the first day.

"I decided I would run him at Armagh (Farmaclaffley point-to-point) to see if we could come here. When he handled Armagh, I thought we might get away with running here.

"Next year there is one winner and two winner hunter chases but that is a long way away at this time."

The Stewards interviewed Mr C.A. Hughes, rider of Castlebawn, concerning his use of the whip in the latter stages of this race.

Evidence was heard from the rider concerned.

Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards found the rider in breach of Reg.10.3.(f)(force) and (g)(frequency) and having taken his record into account suspended him for 7 race days and also advised him to familiarise himself with the rules.

(MG & EM)