Politesse and Conor Orr at Galway © Photo Healy Racing
Politesse battled back bravely on the run-in to secure the Eileen Kelly Memorial Chase on the final day of the Galway festival.
Always towards the head of affairs under Conor Orr, the mare disputed the lead with Battleoverdoyen for much of the race. The latter horse, bidding for back-to-back wins in the race, went on after two out and looked to have matters in hand.
Davy Russell kicked clear up the famous Ballybrit hill, soon going three or four lengths clear of his rivals. However, it soon became evident that all was not lost for his pursuers, as both Politesse and Snugsborough Benny gave chase.
While the latter had no more to offer on the final climb, the Lorna Fowler trained Politesse got to the leader before stretching on to win by over a length.
Lorna Fowler said, “It’s taken so long to get her back after an injury in Cork and she loves good ground, she really bounces off it.
“I was so disappointed when the rain came but when I walked the track I was really happy with it. She was so tough, I’m really proud of her. Conor and her make a great partnership.
“It’s limited what she can go for so we may give her a break and try and get some black type early autumn. She’s not a winter girl.”
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
