Lean Araig (far side)© Photo Healy Racing
Oliver McKiernan's extraordinary decision to drop his hat-trick chasing Lean Araig back markedly in trip at Naas today paid handsome dividends as Robbie Colgan's mount completed his treble in the Grade 2 Paddy Power Shops Better Value Novice Hurdle.
Lean Ariag, who won a pair of three miles handicap hurdles at Punchestown in recent weeks, was today dropping back to just two miles. He was further hindered by a somewhat unorthodox running style, as he appeared a reluctant pace-setter for much of the trip.
However he benefitted from a hell of a ride from Colgan who eventually forced him into racing mode and in the end battled gamely on the run-in to beat Modem by a length.
Afterwards McKiernan, whose Follow The Plan flew the flag for the yard with three high profile Grade 1 wins in recent years, stated "I'm happy with that and it was a bit of a battle. I think I've learned from that race that he really needs a lead!
"But despite that he's won and he's tough.
"Everyone knew he's a good three-mile horse, and he's bred that way too but I always felt that two miles was a bit short for him.
"He has options in novice races now though and all being well he'll go to Fairyhouse and Punchestown."
By Tom Weekes, quotes from Alan Magee
