PLENTY OF SMART PERFORMANCES IN THE KINGDOM

Barry Drake

The John & Mary Killeacle Dowling Memorial A1 570 got underway in the Kingdom on Friday night.

Strideaway Lena set the standard in the opening heat as the 9-4 second favourite went quickest when clocking 31.09.

In the ownership of James O'Mahony, the in-form winner showed her customary early pace to soon move clear. Flying down the back straight, the race was over well before halfway. Crafty Babalino made late headway to get within three lengths at the line, but it was all about the flying early-paced winner. Ladyswell was a neck behind the runner-up in third.

IN OTHER HEATS
In the second heat, Millridge Cali scored for the kennels of Donal O'Mahony. Showing a nice injection of pace heading into the corner after an average start, the 5-1 shot enjoyed the run of the race along the inside of the track at the opening corners. Showing plenty of pace up front, the April puppy proved two lengths too strong for Four Bullets, in 31.43. A length back to Sign On Rocket in third place.
Hazelhill Hazard sprang a 10-1 upset in the third heat. Michael O'Connell's runner was returning to form with a great front-running display. Soon in front, the outcome was never in any doubt. A fine performance and winning in style, the impressive winner ran out a five-length winner, in 31.23. Monabricka was second best, a neck clear of Bounard Han who was back in third.
Donal O'Mahony doubled up in the fourth and final heat as Millridge Blake landed the spoils, in 31.17. Sent off the 9-4 second favourite, this was over as a contest early as the Millridge winner displayed big early pace. All one-way traffic up front, it was a most impressive display to win, in 31.17. Nine lengths back to Coolavanny Bliss in second with Ameerah Choice and Saleen Ollie crossing the line together back in third.