Petrol Head and Danny Gilligan© Photo Healy Racing
On the back of a lengthy absence previously Petrol Head went two from two since joining Katy Brown, this evening landing the valuable Bia Energy Bellewstown Handicap Hurdle, bringing up many bets in the process.
The game looked like it might be up for the former David Dunne and Ronan McNally inmate between the final two, but he showed a great attitude to dig out a length and a quarter win. That came much to the delight of those that supported him into 7/4 favoritism (from 3s on track and from much bigger earlier).
Runner-up Aeros Luck fluffed the final flight but he had no answer to Petrol Head in the closing stages. Given how easy she was to back, Redwood Queen did well to finish third, four lengths back.
"He was very tough from the back of the last," said winning jockey Danny Gilligan.
"He makes it very easy for me, switched off and jumped incredibly well.
"I probably hit the front a touch too soon, but he picked up when I asked him the question and landed me there too soon.
"He was good and hardy from the back of the last and hopefully he can keep stepping up.
"It looked quite a nice race on paper. He was very good the last day and he looks to have come on from the run a lot. He was good there again today.
"I'd imagine so (go to Galway), but I'll leave that up to Katy."
The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident turning for home involving Dads Lad ridden by B. Hayes, unplaced, where it appeared he had to take a check. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.
(MG & EM)
