Racing: Ruby records half-century win
Saturday, 16 December 2000 20:39Ruby Walsh recorded his 50th winnner of the season at Thurles this afternoon, partnering Be My Royal to success in the featured Stayers Novice Hurdle. Walsh rode the gelding to a 20-length victory and afterwards, trainer Willie Mullins said: "He is improving with every race, and we will bring him next to Naas for a Grade Three novice event." Mullins and Walsh were hopeful of a quick double with Adamant Approach in the EBF Maiden Hurdle, but the 4-11 shot was beaten eight lengths by Native Kin.
Favourite backers though had no problems when Kadouko (11-10) repeated a recent course and distance victory in the opening EBF Novice Handicap Chase for Kildare trainer Arthur Moore, scoring by eight lengths from Ship Of Shame. However, Rose Of Inchiquin had to battle tenaciously in the Tattersalls Mares Beginners' Chase confined to mares to justify 5-4 favouritism by a neck from Masseuse. The bookmakers were digging deep as well after the Urlingford Handicap Hurdle as Cronin's Boy, another 5-4 market leader, defied a 7lb penalty for his previous win at Clonmel by going clear in the closing stages to beat Executive Pine by three lengths. (PA)
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
