Treasure battles gamely to see off Mullins pair

Treasure Chest saw off the Willie Mullins duo of Lareena and Bargy Lady to take the Midlands National Ladies Day July 20th Handicap Hurdle.

Successful on his hurdling debut over the course twelve months ago, the Joseph O'Brien trained five-year-old failed to follow-up on his five starts since.

He finished down the field on his return to action last month, and having opened on-course at 16/1 this evening, he eventually went off a 12/1 chance in the colours of JP McManus

Settled behind the leaders by JJ Slevin, the son of Galileo got to the front two out, and was ridden from the last.

Lareena came with a strong challenge on the run-in, but the bay victor battled on gamely to prevail by a short head.

The runner-up was returned at 8/1 under David Mullins, while the 5/2 favourite Bargy Lady was another three lengths back in third with Paul Townend aboard.

Frank Berry, McManus' racing manager, said afterwards: "He jumped well and travelled well. He was probably getting a bit lonely in front but in fairness he battled back well. We'll find another race for him, maybe in Bellewstown."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Product Of Love trained by Alan Fleming, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee