Sole beats 2 other newcomers to Ballinrobe bumper prize

The pink and black Hogan silks have been carried to many a nice win down the years and they got another successful airing at Ballinrobe this evening as Sole Pretender prevailed at the first time of asking in the McHale Orbital Round Bale Wrapper INH Flat Race.

Harley Dunne took the reins on the Gold Well gelding for trainer Norman Lee, who wasn't present as he's at the sales in Cheltenham. Russian Dancer tried hard to get to the 25/1 victor inside the last but he failed by a length and a half to bridge the gap.

Another newcomer, Mister Fogpatches took the third spot, and it'll be interesting to see how the form turns out.

Owner, Limerick man Michael Hogan said: "He was 50/1 this morning and returned at 25s and Norman always thought a lot of him. However you don't really know what you have until you get to the track."

The Stewards interviewed Mr D.T. Kelly, rider of Russian Dancer, 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. 10.4 by failing to give his mount time to respond and having taken his record into account, suspended him for three race days.

The Stewards interviewed Mr H.D. Dunne, rider of Sole Pretender, 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) and 10.4. and having taken his record into account suspended him for three race days.