Having failed to score on his six attempts in bumpers and on his fourteen attempts over hurdles, Granaruid finally got off the mark on just he second start over fences in Midland Breeders Beginners Chase, for his trainer Mick Halford with Davy Condon, who was recording a quick double, in the saddle.
The 8yo son of Alderbrook finished second four times this season, including his effort last time out at Tramore on his chasing debut, where he was caught on the line by Traffic Article.
Returned the 3/1 joint favourite, he settled in behind the leaders early on and was fourth at the halfway stage. He then moved into third before three out and improved to lead at the second last. He was ridden before the last, keeping on well to score by a comfortable five and a half lengths. Imperial Shabra who attempted to make all, plugged on to take second at 25/1 while Definite All Star finished a further length and a quarter back in third at 9/2.
The other 3/1 joint favourite Substitute fell at the third, while Witness Belle who was also well fancied, refused to line up and was withdrawn. Her withdrawal resulted in the deduction of 20 cent in the Euro on all bets.
Winning trainer Mick Halford said afterwards: "The owners (JV's Syndicate) have been very patient with him. They are a great bunch of lads from Granard (Co Longford).
"He has met a couple of decent horses including Dermot Weld's horse Daffren Seal. He jumped like a buck today and goes on that summer ground.
"The horses are in good form at the moment."
The win was Halford's fourth from his last six runners.
Donal Murphy
