Rathbranchurch and Wesley Joyce lead home their rivals© Photo Healy Racing
On his eighth start of the season, Rathbranchurch registered a second career success in the Indaver Ireland Handicap.
Beaten by less than a length when fifth to Keke at Down Royal on his most recent start, the Mick Mulvany-trained four-year-old was sent off a 4/1 chance this evening.
Soon settled behind the leaders in third, the Wesley Joyce-ridden chestnut came with his challenge on the outer a furlong and a half from home.
Edging to the front inside the final 100 yards, the son of Buratino kept on well from there to prevail by half-a-length.
While he came with what looked a strong run inside the final furlong, the effort of Air Force One (7/2jf) petered out close home and he had to settle for second under Billy Lee.
The well-backed Only Spoofing (7s from 33s early) was a head back in third, while Never Shout Never (7/2jf) was a disappointing seventh.
"He's a very consistent little horse. That's only his second win, but he has been placed 10 times. He gives his all," Mulvany commented.
"The last day he was a close fifth in Down Royal and it was more the draw that beat him - you can't be wide there.
"It is great for the owner who is from down the road - keeping local connections happy is what it is all about!"
STEWARDS REPORTS
W.J. Lee, rider of Air Force One, trained by P. Twomey, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount hit the road crossing wrong and hung left after.
Siobhan Rutledge, rider of Sunday Sovereign (GB), trained by G.A. Kingston, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that her mount missed the break.
The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident close to the line involving Air Force One, ridden by W.J. Lee, placed second, and Charming Lady ridden by R. Whearty, placed sixth, where it appeared Air Force One crossed to the rail causing R. Whearty to sit momentarily. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.
Additional reporting by Michael Graham
