Blossom bounces back in style

Blossom Gate bounced back to her best to run out a cosy winner of the three-mile Vision Express Handicap Hurdle at Galway.

Robbie Power gave the mare a confident ride, settling mid-division before taking closer order three from home.

The 18/1 shot hit the front before the second last and kicked clear turning for home. Power could afford to ease down in the closing stages for a convincing six-and-a-half length success over Kostar

The Yvonne Latta-trained daughter of Westerner won a bumper at the track in 2011 and was recording her fifth career success.

“Robert was delighted with her at every stage – she travelled well and he gave her daylight at her hurdles,” said Latta.

“She fell at Roscommon on her second last run and that's why we wanted her to get a good view of her hurdles.

“She won a bumper here a few years ago. She's as tough as old boots and stays really well.

“It's a real family affair as she's owned and bred by my dad (William Powell-Harris) and Robert is my husband's nephew. A lot of credit has to go to my son Andrew also.”

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)