Quinlan quick action saves day as Hale storms home after hiccup

Punters who latched on to the Jennie Candlish-trained Spirit Of Hale in the 3m handicap chase had to thank quick thinking jockey Sean Quinlan for their winnings, as he proved more than awake to the seven-year-old’s quirks with a circuit to negotiate.

Spirit Of Hale was returned the 4-1 joint favourite in a very open market for the contest and appeared happy bowling along in front, but, out of the blue, almost downed tools passing the winning post for the first time as he thought twice about going out on the final circuit.

However, Quinlan is usually a safe pair of hands in such circumstances and soon had matters under control as he galvanised his mount back to head of affairs and the pair proceeded to make the most of the remainder of the running before proving too tough for Cruising Bye.