There was a dramatic sequel to the Tully Maiden at Roscommon yesterday when warm market leader Darsannda was demoted from first place following a stewards' inquiry.
The race was awarded to the Jim Bolger-trained Saxophone, who battled on gamely from the furlong pole for Kevin Manning, only to be denied by a short head by the John Oxx-trained daughter of Kahyasi.
After viewing the head-on film, the stewards had little choice but to demote the odds-on favourite after she drifted off a straight line in the closing stages and caused interference to her market rival. In addition, the officials cautioned John Murtagh to make more of an effort to keep a straight course in future.
Championship leader Ruby Walsh brought his seasonal tally to 20 when scoring on Inchiquin Castle for Sean Treacy in the Lough Ree Maiden Hurdle. The winner, owned by Tallow, Co Waterford, farmer Sean Harnedy, will go chasing soon, according to his winning handler.
Earlier Paul Carberry notched up his 14th victory this term when partnering Laras Grey to a diminishing half-length victory over Coin Machine in the Ballymurray Beginners Chase.
Alexander Confranc, carrying the colours of Miriam O'Callaghan wife of O'Callaghan Hotel Group chief, Noel, landed the opening seven-furlong Glenamaddy Fillies Maiden under Pat Shanahan.
