Robinson back at the number one after absence Rather surprisingly less than three lengths covered the first five home at the end of the Ladbrokes Handicap Chase, an extended three miler that featured as Punchestown's third event on their Saturday afternoon programme. Prince Zaltar led them home for owners, the Blind Squirrels Syndicate, and trainer Philip Rothwell. Bridging a long gap since his last winner in Ireland, jockey Dylan Robinson wasn't long about seizing on the opportunity afforded to himself and Prince Zaltar, when leader Malton Groove (eventual fourth placer) made a mistake at the last. At the line Prince Zaltar had a length in hand over one of the 'finishers,' market-leader Western Model. Rothwell said:- “We’re delighted with him. I just thought the track at Kilbeggan last time was just too sharp for him. “He just seemed to be off it from the word go and got too careful. Even today Dylan said he was a little bit careful after the last day. “I’d say a little bit more juice in the ground would help him as well. “We missed a part of the season because he had a problem with his withers. It’s a divil to mend and the girls at home worked very hard to get them right again. “We decided that we’d go novice handicap chasing this year and it’s great that it’s worked out today. “I think he’s a horse that could end up running in the cross-country at Cheltenham in November. It’s something I’d love to do, I’d need to discuss it with his owners. “Obviously he’s going to be eligible for novice handicap chases this season. “I’d say we’ll be careful about where we run him and see what happens but I’m delighted he’s a winner.” C.P. Millar, rider of Walkonthebriteside, trained by John C. McConnell, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount stopped quickly. (GC & EM)
