Hours lasts it out under strong Hand

Danny Hand shone on Wee Small Hours as the Dermot McLoughlin-trained gelding claimed the second two-and-a-half mile handicap hurdle on the card at Navan today.

The nine-year-old attracted support form 10/1 this morning and went to post a 6/1 shot having finished third at Fairyhouse on New Year's Day.

Hand chased leader Black Ice before hitting the front at the fourth last. He poached a few lengths before the straight and had his rivals on the stretch over the third last.

It looked all over as his mount went clear before the final flight but he did get tired on the run-in and needed strong driving close home to record a two-and-a-half length success. Swingbridge plugged on to claim second while Carrigeen Acebo ran on to take third place.

“He can be a bit keen but we knew he stayed three miles so we said we might as well let him go on. The last 50 yards was a struggle but they are tired horses,” said McLoughlin.

“Michael Rice (owner/breeder) is a timber merchant from Dundalk.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)