Lake Chad leads home big-priced forecast in Thurles

Lake Chad (28/1) foiled Spinning Web s late thrust to win the extended two-mile handicap chase in Thurles.

Niall Moore sent Lake Chad on approaching the home bend, but they were far from home as a plethora of horse held claims racing to the last.

Lake Chad was still boxing on over it when Kazakh D'arthel closed in second. However, jumping came to the fore as the pursuer crashed out.

The leader looked to have the race at his mercy in the closing stages, but Danny Mullins switched Spinning Web out for a late go and, while they were gaining all the time, they went down by a head at 22/1. Ernie From Nurney (8/1) finished five-and-a-half-lengths adrift in third.

Philip Fenton said: "He is not getting any younger, but has been a great servant and I'm delighted.

"He has had a break since his last run as he had been busy all along, so he was a fresh horse.

"His target is the 0-140 veterans chase at Limerick next month.

"Niall is with me six days a week and is a big help."

The Exacta paid €719.20 while the Computer Straight Forecast came in at €529.34.

Lake Chad (a 10-year-old gelding) has been extensively campaigned over further trips during his career which now comprises 54 races and five victories.

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes