Racing survived an early morning inspection for the second successive day at the north-western track, where the ground was again very testing for a seven race mixed programme.
Niall Madden teamed up with his 16-year-old amateur son and namesake for their fourth winner in recent weeks when Sheer Martina easily justified odds-on support in the Martin Reilly Motors Alfa Romeo Maiden Hurdle. Punters only anxious moment came when the five-year-old blundered at the final flight, but she quickly recovered to beat Maria Pia by 25 lengths.
Local trainer Michael McElhone had some good fortune on his side in the featured Royal Exchange Pub Handicap where the Seamus Heffernan-ridden Dr Knock held off the challenge of Astronomer by a length and a half. However, Colm O'Donoghue was unable to give the runner-up full assistance inside the final furlong after his saddle slipped and this may have cost him victory. 'I gave out to the handicapper when he put this horse up 8lb after his second last run in a Wexford maiden, but suppose I will have to take it back now,' said McElhone.
Philip Rothwell saddled a double on the afternoon with Little Ora and Fairwood Present. Little Ora easily landed the handicap hurdle under Charlie Swan, while David Porter partnered his third winner for the Tinahely trainer in the bumper on Fairwood Present.
Chance It Again handled the testing ground well in the juvenile claiming race, heading the front-running Youngblood inside the final furlong and keeping on well for Davy Condon to beat Platium Starlight by three quarters of a length. 'She has showed us a bit at home, but I didn't know whether she would act on the ground,' said successful trainer Donie Hassett.
Fran Berry produced Albrighton with a smooth run to lead a furlong out in the mile and three quarters handicap for a comfortable nine length verdict over Mountain Rocket.
Alan Magee (Irish Racing Services)
