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Martin double brought up in the feature

Golden Spear and happy connectionsGolden Spear and happy connections
© Photo Healy Racing

Second to Clondaw Warrior in last year's running of the event, Golden Spear went a place better under local lad Leigh Roche as Tony Martin brought up a double on day five of the Galway festival in the featured Guinness Handicap.

The successful Kyllachy gelding has been a good servant to his owners, Newtown Anner Stud, and Martin, adding this big prize to his Lartigue Hurdle gains from Listowel last September.

Not seen for 278 days, since a mid-field finish in the November Handicap at Leopardstown, the five-year-old was produced fit and well for this assignment.

Another winning favourite (four from four now on this card), well-backed 100/30 chance, Golden Spear, was given a patient steer by Roche.

Tuam native Roche delivered his mount with perfect timing on the outer in the straight, and he held off 'finishers,' Abraham and Ringside Humour by half a length and a head.

"He ran a blinder in this race last year, and was just not good enough for Clondaw Warrior," explained Martin.

"A month ago I wouldn't have considered running him but he's been coming there in the last fortnight, and has started to shine. He's not a big horse but could go back over hurdles."

Martin's earlier winner was the Donagh Meyler partnered Heartbreak City in the opener.

(AM & EM)

1st
10/3Fav
Tote €4.50 €1.70
2nd
0.5L
20/1
€5.70
3rd
hd
10/1
€2.90
4th
0.5L
9/1