Jim Culloty, who has proven to be the pilot for the big occasion so many times in the past, underlined his top class status at Cork today. Kerry-native Culloty gave Montayral a typically assured ride to take the featured 3m 4f Cork Grand National Handicap Chase. Winning handler Pat Hughes wasn't present to see his always prominent 12/1 shot sprint away on the run in for a two length win - and this despite being hampered by a loose horse on the run down to the last.
The former Paul Nicholls inmate was providing the winning jockey with his first victory at the course. Elsewhere, Shay Barry and Eamonn Sheehy dominated the action. Barry rode a treble (the 1st of his career), whilst Sheehy also landed a hat trick. The sequence was initiated when the duo combined in the opening beginners chase. Satco Express made a successful fencing debut coming home at his leisure by 25L as one would expect of a 2/5 shot.
Although not overly convincing in his jumping technique, connections pointed out that he needs softer ground and was a little 'ring rusty'. The William Neville Chase at Leopardstown's Christmas meeting is now the 7yo's target. Barry teamed up with trainer John Murphy in the following handicap chase. Get Smart ran out a most convincing 10L winner of this 5-runner contest, and the successful handler commented that his charge is improving and he is now expecting a fair hike in the handicap for this win.
The Waterford rider's hat trick was completed in the maiden hurdle. Barry was on another of Sheehy's in Kahuna, the 4/6 chance proved much superior to his rivals and the 6L winning margin did not reflect his dominance. 'A great day' in the words of Sheehy's wife, Roisin finished when Draw Your Gun made a winning debut under Michael Darcy in the bumper. Alpha Rhythm dominated what looked like an open novice hurdle, travelling well throughout before going clear on the run in for an easy win over eyecatching outsider Darby Wall.
