Barry Drake
ROLE MODEL (Pestana-Knockdrinna Wink) set the standard in the semi-finals of the Dave Collins Memorial Munster Oaks at Kilochan Park on Saturday night.
Trained by Owen McKenna for owner John Lambert, the 6-4 favourite displayed plenty of early speed to win the all-important early lead. Glengar Martha looked a real danger in second, however, the leader kept pulling out a bit more in front and the impressive winner held off all challengers. Montana Fantasy was second best, delivering a strong late finish to get within half a length, in 28.26. A length back to Glengar Martha in third place.
BACK TO TOP FORM
Chelms Ramona (Ballyhimikin Jet-Slaneyside Poppy) ran a great opening corner to hit the front and once doing so, she showed massive pace up front.
Strong up front, the classy performer returned to her best form with a really smart 28.49 winning run. Easy Razzle was once again a real eye catcher in second place, three quarters of a length back, with three lengths back to Clonmore Alice in third place.
IN OTHER RACES
Goutouttathat just got the job done in the opening semi final of the Casey's Caravan & Camping Park ON1 Stake when winning for the Obe Syndicate and trainer Niall Fintan Codd. The December puppy got the better of Burgess King, by a neck, in 29.15.
Carefree Charm set the standard in the second heat for Bernie Connolly. The March youngster gained revenge on Bogger The Kid from last week's running and it was a really likeable display, clocking 28.71 and getting the better of Bogger The Kid, by half a length.
Elsewhere on the card, Classy Dougle came home in front to win the €2,250 to the winner JAG ON3 Unraced Series Final. In the ownership of Mathhew Scurry, the April puppy produced a flying start and 5-4 favourite made every yard of the running to land the spoils. Keeping on well at the head of affairs, it was a 29.16 winning performance, two lengths clear of the running on JetStream Sunset.