Glenquin Castle (centre) and Mark Walsh head Avec Espoir at the last © Photo Healy Racing
The Racing Again October 24th And 25th Handicap Chase saw the progressive 7/4 favourite Glenquin Castle complete a hat-trick of wins in staying contests.
Mark Walsh took his time on the Martin Brassil-trained gelding who picked off rivals on the final circuit and moved into contention off the home turn. Avec Espoir had jumped well out in front but was headed at the last as the winner took command, idling in front close home as he scored by half a length.
The Getaway 7-year-old had gone up a stone in the ratings for victories at Roscommon and Kilbeggan.
“He’s progressing well and hopefully he continues on that path,” said Walsh.
“That was the toughest race he’s had today. They went a proper end to end gallop. The last day I thought they just hacked around but that was a proper end to end gallop.
“Denis (O’Regan on Avec Espoir) got away from me a bit but in fairness his jumping keeps him in it and got him there upsides at the last.
“I was delighted to get his head in front again. He likes nice ground.”
Quotes from Alan Magee
