Old Chapel - February 24th 2008

A very pleasant afternoon. Grade D was probably the best race. Mancini was indeed magical in Grade A, leading to discussions of Mancini vs Storm in the All-Ireland. One layer quoted Mancini at 1/1 while another said 5/2. Maybe now's the time to get money on. Noreen McSweeney and Tim O'Leary both bagged a brace, with honours of the day going to Noreen, as she also had a 2nd and a 3rd. Mancini, thanks to Anina Tanno, won b-t-o.

Race 1. Novice/E. 800 Euro.

Start Time: 14.45 -- Race Time: 2.03

3 horses ran -- 5l, 2l. 2/1, 2/1, 1/2 fav.

Disappointing to see only 3 in a combined race. The winner made up for her last 2 performances. Swift Harrier was in command as they settled but Red was in front after the last turn. Rayger did not look like the horse who had easily won his first ever two starts.

Race 2. Grade B. 1,200 Euro.

Start Time: 15.00 -- Race Time: 3.52

Also Ran: Create Gold (T.O'Leary) -- 8l, 3l. 1/6 fav; 3/1, 6/1.

Storm looked the winner almost from flagfall. Around half-way, Flash was in close pursuit but soon yielded to Scoot. Scoot seemed to have every chance but the winner was far too good. Flash put in a decent performance on what was most likely his first road saddle race.

Race 3. Grade D. 900 Euro.

Start Time: 15.15 -- Race Time: 2.24

Also Ran: Dreamland (N.McSweeney), Ebony Jane (1/1 Fav, A.Tanno), Leesdale Star (J.Sheehy) -- 2l, 2 1/2l. 2/1, 5/1, 6/1.

Finch led virtually from the start. Ebony Jane went off stride as she made her move at the penultimate turn. She got back trotting but did the same at the last turn. Buddy came with a late run but gutsy little Finch had enough in hand.

Race 4. Grade C. 900 Euro.

Start Time: 15.40 -- Race Time: 2.14

Also Ran: Commander Matt (P.O'Brien) -- 5l, 7l. 1/4 fav; 6/1, 4/1.

The Punisher raced well, holding the lead for a short time. But Genius never looked in any danger, even before he moved to the front.

Race 5. Grade A. 1,500 Euro.

Start Time: 15.55 -- Race Time: 3.54

4 horses ran -- 1/5 fav; 3/1, 6/1.10l, 8l.

In the early stages, Commander and Mack vied, before the grey prevailed. As usual, he ran his heart out but once Mancini was told go, with a shake of the reins, it was all over.