Toufan Express (10/1) finally got his head in front this season following a frustrating run of placings when finishing strongly under Chris Hayes to land the seven furlongs Exchange Inn Ballybunion & Kevin Brodericks Bar Listowel Handicap. Fit The Cove adopted his customary role of front-runner but weakened at the furlong pole as Slieve Mish and Toufan Express came through to fight it out. The latter proved strongest in the closing stages to score by a length, with If Per Chance another half length away in third.
“He didn't see out the mile at the Curragh last Sunday but had a good draw today and Chris made his mind up in the straight. He's been placed nine times this year and deserved that win (fourth career win),” said trainer Ado McGuinness.
He added, “He's entered here on Friday but has a bit of a cut so we'll have to see how he is. Ideally I'd like to find something over seven furlongs, and he may go back to Dundalk as the ground is a big factor for him.”
