Item wins Breeders Handicap in Downpatrick
News Item won the Powers Ulster Grand National European Breeders Fund Handicap for the second successive year at Downpatrick.
A 6-1 chance when successful 12 months ago, he landed the odds as the 4-1 favourite this time round and travelled smoothly throughout for promising 7lb claiming jockey Johnny Farrelly, who is attached to Jonjo O’Neill’s yard.
The pace was set by Kings Glen but he dropped away with over half a mile to run, leaving Paul Nolan’s McEvoy in front, although Farrelly always looked to have him covered.
And so it proved, as George Stewart’s charge was kicked clear inside the final two furlongs and put the seal on a fantastic 22-length victory.
McEvoy (14-1) stayed on gamely for second, with Giolla De (12-1) running on for third.
