Progressive Charm takes his chance Davids Charm made the most of his opportunity as first reserve, reaching the line-up for TheTote.com Handicap Hurdle and delivering at odds of 14/1 in race three at Galway. He had cheek-pieces on for the first time when winning at Listowel 58 days back. Those aids were this time replaced with a hood, and despite showing his inexperience by wandering, Davids Charm put this race to bed convincingly from before the final flight. John Joe Walsh-trains the Milan gelding, and Ambrose McCurtin's mount defeated top-weight Clara Sorrento by seven and half lengths. "He's in here again on Sunday — over three miles — we'll see how he is," said John Joe Walsh. "Ambrose gave him a really good ride." For his part McCurtin, registering his first winner at the Galway festival, commented: "It was his first run in a handicap the last day and even today he showed his inexperience. "He had a good look at the crowds. He's a good stayer. He doesn't do a lot in the early part of a race but the further he goes the better he is. "The hood helped to keep him relaxed with all the atmosphere at Galway." D.J. Mullins, rider of Snugsborough Hall, trained by Liam P Cusack, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount stopped very quickly before the second last hurdle and was pulled up. The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Snugsborough Hall, trained by Liam P Cusack, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal. The Turf Club Veterinary Officer reported to the Stewards that William B trained by Gordon Elliott was lame post race. (AM & EM)
