Ted Veale (nearest) gets the better of Clonbanan Lad © Photo Healy Racing
Tony Martin saddled his fifth winner of the week when Ted Veale recorded a battling victory in the At The Races Beginners Chase at Galway.
The 6/5 favourite was produced to challenge turning for home by Barry Geraghty but had to dig deep to get the better of Clonbanan Lad by a length-and-a-quarter.
The runner-up had taken over from front-runner Il Fenomeno before the second last but couldn't hold the late charge of the market leader.
Ted Veale was opening his account over fences having shown some smart form in novice company last season.
“He wasn't loving the ground but he's only done what he was entitled to on his winter form,” said Martin.
“He jumped well apart from getting a little close to the second last and that may have been a blessing as it gave him something to shoot at.
“He's got plenty of options between novices chases, the Flat and hurdles.”
(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)
