The plan works a treat with Lindenhurst

Local trainer John McConnell sent out Lindenhurst to land the spoils in Bellewstown’s one mile six handicap at odds of 9/2.

The four-year-old gelding had competed at Grade 1 level over hurdles finishing ninth at Cheltenham and 10th in Punchestown this year, but it appears his immediate future will be on the level.

John McConnell said: “I thought he had improved a bit at home as in his work he was pushing our work horse Blue Ridge Lane. He loved the step up in trip. That was the plan for the last few months. We’ll look for a handicap over a mile and six or two miles, maybe the big amateur race in Galway.

“His confidence was knocked in Cheltenham when he was hampered. I won’t be rushing to go over hurdles again after that though I'm sure he will go over them again. He’s a small horse and doesn’t have a lot of scope.”

In this assignment he was located in third at the halfway point before disputing the lead at the two pole. He kept on stoutly for Gary Carroll in the final furlong to put away the 2/1 favourite Snowmane by two and a half lengths. Snowman was well punted on course down from 11/4. Lindenhurst attracted plenty of local euro shortening from 6s to 9/2 on the off.