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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

Toccata gives rivals the Blues

Sun 21st Jul 2013, 16:11

Toccata Blue (third from left) finds a gap to challenge under Emmet McNamaraToccata Blue (third from left) finds a gap to challenge under Emmet McNamara
© Photo Healy Racing

Viewed by some as a novelty event, and others a gimmick, the Irish Field Grey Horse Handicap is certainly a departure from the norm and the mile contest produced an exciting finish with Toccata Blue produced with a well-timed challenge under Emmet McNamara.

After extricating the Ger Lyons-trained “roan” gelding from a pocket on the far rail causing the under pressure Patrickswell some interference about two furlongs out, McNamara’s mount quickened up well inside the final furlong to collar Susiescot by a length.

The result was confirmed following a stewards enquiry, with Right Divine a further three quarters of a length back in third.

Lyons said, “There’s nothing of him and in the parade ring he looked like a foal compared to everything else. Still he’s won three now and Emmet gets on well with him.

“It’s a bit of a gimmick of a race and I’m not sure if I agree with it but its nice to win any race.”

1st
11/4JFav
Tote €2.20 €1.50
2nd
1L
4/1
€2.00
3rd
0.75L
7/1
4th
2L
11/4JFav
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.