Ruby’s race after Darlan’s tragedy (From Bridport and Lyme Regis News)

Ruby’s race after Darlan’s tragedy

9:00am Wednesday 6th February 2013 in Sport By Sport reporter

HARRY Fry’s Rock On Ruby claimed the Listed 32Red Hurdle at Doncas-ter on Tuesday as even-money favourite Darlan suffered a fatal fall at the last flight.

The pair were settling down to battle it out and the Nicky Henderson-trained Darlan was travelling particularly well under Tony McCoy.

However, he met the last all wrong and crashed to the ground as Rock On Ruby (13-8) pushed on for a three-length victory over Countrywide Flame.

While McCoy escaped un-scathed, Darlan sustained a fatal injury.

Darlan had jumped impressively up until the final flight, as Countrywide Flame set the pace, with Rock On Ruby sat on his heels.

Rock On Ruby began his challenge at the top of the straight as Noel Fehily pushed to the front, with Darlan tracking his every move.

Countrywide Flame was soon slightly outpaced and Darlan looked to be cantering in behind, only to step at the last when looking a likely winner.

Seaborough handler Fry said: “In terms of the race, we didn’t want a scenario like that and commiserations to all of Nicky’s team and AP (McCoy) and JP (McManus).

“As far as Ruby is concerned, we’ve come and he’s done the job. He’s had a good race and that will bring him on again for the day. He’s jumped well enough, not as sharp as he can be, but there’s improvement there. We can take him home and put the finishing touches on him. He’s a really tough horse. He joined Countrywide Flame turning into the straight and it’s a long way home, but he’ll keep galloping and keep finding all day for us.

“The whole season has been built around Cheltenham and hopefully we can go there full of confidence.”