Dempsey shines on Stonehall

Luke Dempsey shone on front-runner Stonehall Jack as he landed the spoils in the Coola Handicap Chase at Kilbeggan.

The Davy Fitzgerald-trained gelding opened up a healthy lead at halfway but came back to the field three from home as Dempsey gave him a breather.

He had plenty up his sleeve in the closing stages, however, as the 10/1 shot stuck on well from the last to record a five-and-a-half length victory over Na Trachtalai Abu

“It's badly wanted. He had a good run in Tramore and should have won here two months ago but his jumping let him down,” said Fitzgerald.

“He should win one more if the handicapper isn't too hard on him. Basically he's too free and if he settled he'd be a grand horse.

“There is a 109 for him in Galway. I'm delighted for the owners who are local to me in Askeaton.”