Walhaan © Photo Healy Racing
Dual-purpose performer Walhaan (12/1) gained his second Leopardstown victory when landing the Shamrock Enterprises Handicap in good style.
Twice successful at Dundalk since winning over hurdles at the south Dublin track last year, the grey raced handily under Darragh O'Sullivan (second winner) and led two furlongs out before clearing away to beat Arch Enemy by two-and-three-quarter lengths.
Ciaran Murphy trains the seven-year-old for the Ask Dot Syndicate and said: “He loves it around it around here and hasn't run a bad race here.
“His run in Dundalk was a grand run. Going there he was working very well and I was a shade disappointed, I thought he'd be nearer. It probably was a better race, the premier handicaps aren't easy won.
“He came out of it well and we said we'd come back here to where he likes, and it's down in grade.
“The young man that rode him gave him a lovely ride, he was very cool and is good value for his 10lb. We've been keeping a good eye on him. We're very happy with the result.
“He'll probably have a run over hurdles at Kilbeggan in a fortnight. The plan would be to go chasing at some stage.
Quotes from Gary Carson
