The Bog Bank secured her fourth victory at Bellewstown under jockey Alyse Clarke by clinching Division I of the Gibneys Malahide Handicap.
Trained by Tom McCourt in Stamullen, the seven-year-old Epaulette mare had previously given Clarke her first career win at this venue in July. Following two solid performances on the all-weather at Dundalk, she was backed as the 4/1 favourite to extend her impressive track record.
Positioned mid-division early on, The Bog Bank seemed to have a lot of ground to make up when only fifth in the straight, as Selective Power forged ahead. However, Clarke executed a perfectly timed ride, moving her mount into second with a furlong to go and leading close to the finish for a popular local win.
McCourt remarked, "The Bog Bank knows where the line is!"
He continued, "I thought she might have too much to do in the first half of the race, especially with the pace. Alyse did a great job in the finish—she’s improving with every ride and will definitely have more chances at Dundalk this winter."
McCourt also mentioned that Clarke, who has just finished school, is considering taking a year off college, which could be beneficial for her development as a jockey. "The Bog Bank will head to Dundalk, where she has shown good form," he added.