Duke headed for Plate in super form

Sandymount Duke warmed up for a tilt at the Galway Plate in the best possible fashion with victory in the Leopardstown Membership (Q.R.) Maiden.

Kate Harrington made her intentions known from an early stage and she soon had the Hernando gelding at the head of affairs.

It was clear that the 6/5 shot was going to be difficult to catch from early in the straight. Mountain Rock (9/10 favourite) and Jamie Codd soon moved through in vain pursuit and five lengths split them at the line.

Winning trainer Jessica Harrington said: "I thought a mile and seven (furlongs) might be a bit short for him, and the only way to ride him is to bowl along. I think he got such a fright coming out of the stalls that it took a little while to get in front but she said he was super all the way.

"He loves that ground and bounces off it. It's the Galway Plate now and we'll see what happens. He won't mind if the ground is a bit slower.

"He's won ten races now. A Flat race, bumper, hurdles and chases. He's become a part of the furniture. I think Ronnie (Wood, owner) is going to come to Galway. I was talking to him there (by phone) and he's thrilled."

(AM & EM)