Wa Wa benefits from canny ride by Cooper Wa Wa (16s into 12s before the off) bounced back to form to win the Meath Farm Machinery Handicap Hurdle under Bryan Cooper. Rated over two stone lower in this sphere, the dual-winning chaser had been out of sorts in recent outings but was cajoled into contention in the straight having been well back for much of the race. Long-time leader Indie Belle was still in front when losing all chance with a blunder at the last and it was Wa Wa, under a hand ride, who took advantage to score by a length and a quarter from Atlantean. It was a tonic for winning trainer Dermot McLoughlin, currently at home nursing a broken leg. Broadcaster Gary O'Brien, on duty at the track for Racing TV, is a member of the Seven Figures Partnership. Cooper said: “I had that plan going out but I didn't think it was going to be as hard as it was to be honest. “It was more of a confidence booster for him really. I knew half way down the back I was on a going day and I was hoping nothing would come around me. “I was keen not to commit and followed Danny (Mullins) through. When I switched in I shot through quickly and there was nothing going to get past him. “He just doesn't like horses coming around him, he's gone a bit clever. He had a nice mark, it doesn't always work though. It's great for Gary (O'Brien) and the lads as I'd say they were getting a little bit frustrated.” Quotes from Gary Carson
