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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

Suprstar grinds out victory

Thu 16th Feb 2012, 16:41

The Book Thief (left) just leads over the second last from<br>Sumkindasuprstar (centre) and Code Of The WestThe Book Thief (left) just leads over the second last from
Sumkindasuprstar (centre) and Code Of The West
© Photo Healy Racing

Ben Dalton was seen to good effect as he partnered 7/1 shot Sumkindasuprstar to a hard-earned victory in the Lisronagh Novice Handicap Chase at Clonmel.

The eight-year-old gelding, who provided Kilkenny handler John Clifford with his last winner when successful at Limerick on St. Stephen’s Day, showed admirable battling qualities to land the two and a half miles event. The Book Thief (12/1) took over in front from the grey Toomdeely early on the final circuit, and was still at the head of affairs entering the straight.

However a mistake two out and a more serious blunder at the last put paid to his chance as Code Of The West (11/2) loomed up as the main threat on the run-in.

But the latter found precious little on the uphill stretch to the line, and Dalton’s mount ultimately recorded a three quarters of a length verdict over The Book Thief as Code Of The West weakened tamely another two and a half lengths away in third.

Winning owner Larry O’Connor said, “We were going to wait a while but he was in such good form that we had to run him.”

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.