Midleton Rare beats former stablemates under O'Sullivan Midleton Rare registered his third win of the season, as he beat former stable companions into second and third in the Pat & Eddie Smith Memorial (Qualified Riders) Handicap Hurdle. Previously in the care of Dermot McLoughlin, the Ian Donoghue-trained victor tracked the leaders under Alan O'Sullivan and improved into a close second from three out. In a share of the lead over the next, the 6/1 chance soon gained a narrow advantage and kept on well when ridden away from the last, coming home a length-and-a-half to the good. The McLoughlin pair of Schiehallion (14/1 from 33s early) and Hey Babbs (15/2 from 40s early) were second and third respectively and while there was just a neck between them, they drew 15-lengths clear of the fourth. Returned the 7/2 favourite, Money Heist finished down the field, with Gallant George, a stable companion of the winner, pulling up quickly before five out. "He ran over three miles at Christmas in Limerick on very heavy ground and I don't think he didn't stay - he's a funny old horse," Donoghue reflected. "Jack (Kennedy) got off him the last day and said that Downpatrick didn't suit him and to go to a flowing track where you can keep him flowing. "He was in good form coming in here and there wasn't much between him and Gallant George. I thought I was coming here with a 1-2, but he unfortunately pulled up. "He (Midleton Rare) stayed at it well - I suppose up in that trip, they are going that bit slower, he can travel easy. "He has well and truly done his job for us now. I'd say that will do him for the summer, he will probably go to the sales and best of luck to the next people with him." Additional reporting by Michael Graham
