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John O'Riordan

John O'Riordan

Hassett gets up late on Carlo Bianconi for O'Brien

Wed 15th May 2024, 19:44

Sligo 14 5 24 carlo Bianconi  Wayne Hassett win the Web The Tool Hire handicap Sligo 14 5 24 carlo Bianconi Wayne Hassett win the Web The Tool Hire handicap
© Photo Healy Racing

Wayne Hassett was seen to great effect when delivering Carlo Bianconi from off the pace to win the Web The Tool Company Handicap at Sligo.

A disappointing favourite when beaten in his maiden over further at Gowran Park last time, the Joseph O'Brien trained gelding seemed to appreciate dropping back in trip tonight.

Held up in mid division, Hassett travelled well in fifth over two furlongs out, as Fiver Friday and Red Ball Of Fire duelled for the lead.

In a race of ever changing fortunes, no sooner had the latter stuck her head in front then she was passed by Pinball Wizard and last of all, Hassett on the eventual winner.

Finding himself short of room over a furlong out, the young Tipperary man had to sit and suffer before the gaps appeared inside the last 200 yards.

Wayne Hassett said: "To be honest, the race didn't go as I wanted but it worked out in the end. I wanted to jump and be box seat but it didn't happen.

"It suited him up here, he didn't know where he was, and he was travelling a lot better for me today. I got into a small bit of trouble in the straight but once I got him out got by everyone, he ran around a bit in front but kept at it to the line.

"He had a lovely turn of foot which saved me, to be fair! It's my first winner at Sligo too which makes it even better.

"He was a bit disappointing over a mile and a half the last day but maybe when he smartens up he can go that bit further."

Additional reporting by Mark Nunan.

About John O'Riordan
John has worked for the Press Association since 2022. He also writes a weekly column for The Irish Field and is a regular contributor to the Irish Racing Yearbook. He has previously written for the Racing Post, Irish Examiner and Irish Daily Mirror. He has been involved in racing for over three decades; having experience as a syndicate member, sole owner and breeder.