Dream Tale battles well for Whelan

Dream Tale (4/1) showed a really good attitude when taking the one mile handicap at 5.15 for owner /trainer Andy Oliver.

Pushed along in mid-division on the home turn, the Shamardal gelding picked up well to dispute the lead over a furlong out. Ronan Whelan’s mount was joined by French Rain (18/1) at this point and the pair duelled in the final furlong, with Dream Tale finding plenty for pressure to come out on top by half a length.

A backward type, the 5-year-old didn’t make his debut until last November and this was his second win after a victory at Leopardstown in April.

“He has been knocking on the door so deserved that and Ronan gave him a very good tactical ride,” said Oliver.

"I couldn't fault the horse, he has a great attitude and battled well. We'll see what the handicapper does and what opportunity presents itself.

"I asked Ronan about going seven (furlongs) but he said to stay at a mile or even go up again so we'll see - he got 10f at Dundalk and it gives us options and he is a good hardy campaigner."

Quotes from Thomas Weekes