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It took twelve months but a trip back to Ipswich was all that Adnocon to get back into the winners stall as he collected his second $175,000 Listed City Of Ipswich Eye Liner Stakes (1350m) at Ipswich on Saturday.
Photo by Racing and Sports
The Gerald Ryan-trained sprinter came into last year's event on the back of two impressive wins but this time he was first-up; the result, however, was the same.
Ridden by Damian Browne, Adnocon jumped well from barrier twelve of fourteen but the wide draw forced Browne to sit three wide on the gelding throughout the first half of the race.
Luckily for supporters, Drenalin (Stewart), who sat in the one-one position, came out to edge closer at the 600m and this gave Browne and Adnocon the perfect trail into the race.
As the field rounded the turn Drenalin took up the lead and Adnocon seemed to be struggling, but clearly the five-year-old has plenty of heart as he kept digging in, inching closer to Drenalin with every stride.
Gundy Son (Hammersley) made a late charge but Adnocon had enough in reserve to hold off the challenge and overhaul the leader to score.
At the line the margin was a half neck to Gundy Son with the same margin to Drenalin in third place. The overall time was 1.20.24 with the last 600m run in 36.18.
“I've had a few weeks off so I needed that,” Browne said referring to his recent suspension.
“I thought he was a real good ride leading up but when the alleys come out I thought he would need a little bit of luck, but all credit to Gerald and his team, they had him spot on today.
“The horse gave me a great feel going to the start, he travelled lovely throughout though he was three wide, I was able to get a little bit of cover about the 600m when Drenalin popped out. That gave him the breather that he needed so he could kick.”
Adnocon is by Clang out of the Danehill (USA) mare Gwen. He is owned by popular racecaller David Fowler in partnership with H J Flynn, K D Conlan & Just Fun Racing Syndicate (Mgr: D C Halpin) and has a race record of eight wins and 12 minors from 38 starts.
