Opening races Sligo treble for Ryan

Trainer John Ryan recorded his second career treble, both achieved at Sligo's 'all-chases day', today as his Grange Walk landed a dramatic Frank O'Beirne Handicap Chase under jockey Bryan Cooper.

The son of Thewayyouare was produced from off the pace to narrowly lead approaching the final fence and while he hadn't yet shaken off Benefit Run that rival fell at the last.

Chasing Ingleby Mackenzie was another last fence faller, with Espion Du Chenet badly hampered, finishing fourth, behind 2.75L winner Grange Walk.

Ryan, earlier successful with gambled Kitty Galore (under Sean O'Keeffe) and Rippon Lodge (Philip Donovan), was notching a 28th winner of the season, 13 more than his previous best tally in 2020/21.

The Templemore trainer's only previous treble was at today's corresponding fixture in 2016 and said “I think he (Grange Walk) would have won in Galway (fell three out) - he’s a classy type.

“Danny (Mullins) gave him a super ride to win in Limerick and the other riders will have to watch out because he’ll be back soon!

“He’s a fine strong horse who’s only six and the sky’s the limit for him. He’ll be better than a handicapper and could be one for the nicer novice chases.”

Today's meeting is the only Sligo fixture to hold steeplechases races, and the fences are brought in, and out, for the occasion.

Quotes from Mark Nunan