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- Meain makes quick return to land big pot
Gary Carson
Meain makes quick return to land big pot
Inis Meain pulls well clear of his rivals
© Photo Healy Racing
Inis Meain wasted no time getting back to winning ways when landing the €60,000 Guinness Handicap at Galway this evening.
Denis Hogan 's charge had to settle for second last night when going down to Call Me Bubbles but put his rivals to the sword in great style just over 24 hours later.
Chris Hayes made all on the 5/1 shot and he had his rivals struggling when he kicked for home before the straight.
The American-bred gelding powered clear on the run-in and could afford to ease down near the line for an impressive seven-length success. Shamiran who had chased the leader throughout, plugged on to secure the runner-up spot while 3/1 favourite Olympiad had to settle for third.
It was a second winner of the week for Hogan after Monday's win for Kalellshan, also in Liam O'Kelly's colours.
"That was mighty. I had a few advisers saying what was I doing running him again so there was a bit of pressure and I was open to criticism," said the trainer.
"I always had this race in mind if he was at this rating. It must have been a fair horse that beat him last night!
"He'll go back hurdling and hopefully we have another few days with him.
"Chris gave him a great ride. He had a hard race last night and that was a worry.
"I brought him home as I wanted him in his own stable. He went to Aintree once and didn't react well.
"He ate up this morning so there was no reason not to come back. He was as bright as a button."