Rich digs deep to land rated contest

The Karl Thornton-trained Rich Belief rallied on the run-in to claim the House And Amber Rated Novice Hurdle at Limerick. Mount Brown looked set to score when asserting before the final flight in the two-miler but was chased down by Rich Belief in the closing stages.

Donagh Meyler conjured another effort from the 10/3 shot as he secured a half length win.

The winner had made his return to action on the Flat at Navan late last month. He was adding to a maiden hurdle win at Down Royal last August.

"The run on the Flat sharpened him up and I thought coming here he would have a bit more class than the opposition," said Thornton.

"I thought he would have more speed for them and has more ability than he lets on. He had good form and the nicer ground helped today. 

"He'll go to Fairyhouse next Monday for a novice handicap."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)