Sarteano proves tough

The Dessie Hughes-trained Sarteano ground out a gutsy success to claim the Latin Quarter Chase at Galway. Willies Girl who had taken up the running with over a circuit to go proved a tough nut to crack in the 2m6f event.

The mare had her rivals hard at work from three out and only gave way in the closing stages.

Sarteano, under a strong drive from Bryan Cooper, wore down the front-runner on the run to the line to record a two-length success.

10/3 favourite Truckers Delight made a costly error at the final fence when staying on into contention and eventually finished fourth.

"Everything was right for him today. The 2m6f on good ground and the conditions suited him," said Hughes.

"His last two runs were good. He was unlucky in the Irish National also where he was brought down.

"For him Punchestown was heavy enough but he still ran well to finish third.

"We gave him a break then and were thinking about the Galway Plate but he wasn't going to get into that so this was the next option.

"The plan worked out. He jumped great and loves that fast ground. He deserved that as he's been a good horse.

"He'll probably go for the Kerry National if he gets into it although he likes a good galloping track."

Andrew McNamara felt that the mistake at the final fence cost his mount Truckers Delight.

"He made a mistake at the last and I'm not saying he definately would have won but he would have went close.

"He nearly jumped the second last too well and just got on top of the last fence then."

Gary Carson