Six horses were declared for the Live At Leopardstown Handicap at Leopardstown today but half the field eventually defected leaving the Michael Halford trained Rummaging to beat two rivals, under claimer Conor McGovern.

Both Breathe Easy (off feed) Algonquin (stiff) were early withdrawals while Burn The Boats was disputing joint-favouritism when he was withdrawn, having refused to load.

McGovern riding his sixth winner, held seven year old Rummaging up in last before delivering his challenge in the straight, firstly moving past Strait Of Zanzibar and then leader Katimavik close home for a half length win.

Afterwards Halford stated “we maybe got a bit lucky with the two coming out and the other horse not loading but he deserves it as he's been a terrific servant and is thoroughly genuine.

“After he won last week we said we'd up him to a mile and try him. He hit the line well and as he's gotten older he's probably settling better.

“Conor is very good value for his 7lb and that's a big help. The horse is a good ride and with three runners it was straight-forward.

“He's not getting any younger and is exposed but as long as he's enjoying it we'll keep going. Hopefully the handicapper isn't too hard on him.”

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson