Progressive Shanroe Al C strolls to four-timer Shanroe Al C took advantage of a lenient mark on his return to fences when completing a four-timer in the Tipperary Handicap Chase. The Karl Thornton-trained gelding struck form in the spring over hurdles scoring at Limerick and twice over three miles at Perth. An absence of five months proved no problem here as the 11/8 favourite won in great style off a basement figure of 87. Donagh Meyler oozed confidence aboard the six-year-old striking the front two out and, after drawing clear along with Dontdooddson, appeared to be getting the better of the argument when that rival unseated rider at the last. This left Shanroe Al C clear to record a facile 17 lengths verdict over Glorious Galway with Madaboy Cross half a length further away in third. Thornton said, "Chasing was always going to be his job. It was straightforward and I couldn't be happier with him. "At two minutes to 12 yesterday, I threw him in at Downpatrick on Friday but I wouldn't think he'll go. "John Barry (amateur jockey) is a good friend of mine and would be mad to get back on him but he is heavy enough, so we'll have to try and find a low grade race from top weight! "He does a lot of work with him and as long as I have seen the horse, he has never made a mistake, between racing, schooling at home and point to points. Chasing is definitely his job." (TW & AM)
