Only Sky, far side, winning by a neck over an extended mile and a half© Photo Healy Racing
Shane Foley dictated the fractions on Jessica Harrington's Only Sky (9/2) to good effect in the David Heneghan Memorial Handicap at Ballinrobe.
His front-running mount was pressed over a quarter of a mile from home by Parisienne Ways but she hugged the rail and refused to yield.
Parisienne Ways cracked with 100 yards to go as Only Sky increased the gap, however, 13/8 favourite Phoenix Cowboy picked up well and closed to within a never nearer neck at the line.
Foley said: "She had a couple of good runs at the Curragh and Leopardstown. It was awkward race here the last day, there was no pace and I got stuck out on her a bit.
"She toughed it out well today and had a nice light weight on her back. She is genuine and she stays. It pays to be able to jump and travel around here."
This was Only Sky's first victory on her fifth start. She sported cheekpieces for the first time.
The Stewards requested a report from Mrs John Harrington, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Only Sky, placed first, as compared with its recent run here at Ballinrobe on the 21st June. Niall Amond, Authorised representative of Mrs John Harrington reported that the application of first time cheek pieces and a strong ride from the front by holding the rails position contributed to the improved performance. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the content of the report.
Additional reporting by Donal Murphy
