Andretti Castle claims the spoils Andretti Castle more than doubled his career earnings for the Co Clare-based permit holder Michael McDonagh when springing a 12 to 1 surprise in last night`s featured Sunnybank Handicap Hurdle. 'A bit surprised,' was McDonagh`s reaction and it echoed the feelings of most on the track since Andretti Castle was having his first start since New Year`s day.However the brother to the former good steeplechaser Lo Stregone had won twice last winter and there was no hint of a lack of fitness as Barry Geraghty made his move for home at the fourth-last. The pace-setting Anjlore was not able to cover the move and it was left to the favourite Largy Line to throw down a challenge which ultimately failed by three lengths. Cratloe based McDonagh could now aim his horse at the Galway festival. Ballybrit could also be on Namibia`s agenda if the ground is not too firm and the filly will go there as a winner following her easy four-length defeat of Emerald Heights in the 11-furlong handicap.Namibia was one of three 7 to 2 co-favourites but one of them, Peace Leader, ran wide on the turn in, Rainbow Realm faded at the two-furlong pole and ultimately Namibia wasn`t pressured by Timmy Houlihan to win. 'She is better than I thought,' said her trainer John Kiely.
