Much improved Springboard scores on second run over fences Having finished tailed off on his initial run over fences in May, Springboard put in a much improved performance when getting up close home under Cian Quirke to win the Ryans Cleaning Handicap Chase at Galway. Sent off 4/1jf on his fencing debut at Limerick in May, for whatever reason the Michael McDonagh trained gelding failed to fire on that occasion. Having run well reverting to hurdles at Listowel last time, the seven-year-old was back to form on his second chase start here. Tracking the leaders throughout, the 7/1 chance went second after jumping two out. Coming through to press leader My Cullen early in the straight, Springboard kept on well to eventually get on top close home for a half-length success. Assistant Trainer James Ivors said: "He didn't travel like we'd expect him to travel and I was never happy with him through the race, but he dug it out. He didn't jump like he can but Cian said that maybe he was running back a little too soon after his run in Listowel. "He is a good mover but handles any ground and we'll give him a little break now, with Limerick at Christmas being his main target." (Quotes by Thomas Weekes)
