John Shinnick guided Kate to victory

John Shinnick had his claim reduced to 5lb after guiding Kate Ill Know to victory in the second division of the Visit Wexford Handicap Hurdle.

The 11-year-old, a winner on debut in March 2021 under Denise O'Shea, had been disappointing in nine starts since joining Ken Budds. Sent off at 16/1, she settled in mid-division, improved to second place approaching three out, and disputed the lead before gaining a narrow advantage approaching the final flight. She held off the favourite, Granpa Ger (10/3f), to win by a length-and-three-quarters. Getaway Henry (5/1) finished third, another length-and-three-quarters behind.

Shinnick noted that the mare had experienced several near misses, but things hadn’t quite worked out for her previously. He mentioned that Ken's horses are currently in good form, and Kate Ill Know had switched back to hurdles after a previous run over fences on slow ground. According to Shinnick, she performed well, battled effectively, and finished strongly after the last hurdle.