Search
Punchestown 2024
Punchestown 2024
- irishracing.com
- Punchestown
- News
- Hayes shines on Solo
Gary Carson
Hayes shines on Solo
Solo Performer scores under Chris Hayes
© Photo Healy Racing
Chris Hayes charted a wide course on Solo Performer as he made all to land the 1m6f handicap at Bellewstown.
Hayes, landing a double on the card, soon sent his mount into a clear lead and he kept enough up his sleeve in the closing stages.
6/4 favourite Phantom Of Plenty tried to throw down a challenge two furlongs out but hung left, under Gary Phillips, and couldn't peg back the front-runner.
Harry Rogers' charge galloped on strongly in the closing stages to post a nine length victory.
The 12/1 winner was bouncing back to form having been well held in recent starts.
"That was the plan to jump out a make it. There's a bit better ground on the outside," said Rogers.
"The horses are running well and it's great to get a win with him as he's a great servant. That's his ninth win." Face Value had proved the one for money in the race, backed on course from 7/2 into 5/2, but was never involved in fifth.
Hayes had also landed the opener when Approval Given edged a thrilling finish.
(On course reporting by Michael Graham)