Spillane's Tower and Mark Walsh lived up to star billing with impressive Fairyhouse success. © Photo Healy Racing
Former Aintree Grand National winning trainer Jimmy Mangan looks to have another high class horse on his hands after the J.P. McManus owned Spillane's Tower justified his big reputation with an impressive success in the Grade 1 WillowWarm Gold Cup at Fairyhouse.
Sent off 7-4 second market choice behind recent Navan conqueror Blood Destiny the Walk In The Park gelding reversed that form this afternoon, taking his score to two from three against that latter rival.
Both horses were held up towards the rear for much of this seven runner contest, as Zanahiyr and Tactical Move went head to head up front. The field began to close up after four out, with the eventual winner moving ominously well just off the pace.
Getting a dream run through on the inner, Mark Walsh produced Spillane's Tower to lead two out, before staying on strongly to see off a rallying Tactical Move, with Blood Destiny back in third.
Jimmy Mangan said: “From day one we’ve liked this horse and he’s taken to fences really well. I so delighted for the lads at home in the yard, Pat Murphy rides him every day, and the McManus family for sending him to me.
“We only have about a dozen horses and most of them are pointers.
“He’s only a six-year-old and his future is ahead of him. When the ground dries he’ll go home to Martinstown and next year will be the plan.
“I couldn’t see why he wouldn’t stay three miles but that will be for next year. He’s by a great sire in Walk In The Park.
“I spoke to Jody Townend and she said the ground is a bit tacky more so on the hurdle course than the chase so I was happy enough.
“Willie is an incredible trainer and a gentleman into the bargain. He even wished me well before the race today and visa versa I wished him well.”
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Additional reporting by Alan Magee.
