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Change of tactics just the tonic for Woodstream Lad

Woodstream Lad and Calum HoganWoodstream Lad and Calum Hogan
© Healy Racing Photos

Woodstream Lad recorded a third career win when taking the Randox Handicap Hurdle in convincing fashion under Calum Hogan at Downpatrick.

The Philip Rothwell-trained gelding had all his rivals in trouble after the penultimate flight and a mistake at the last had no impact as he drew clear on the run-in.

The eight-year-old galloped on strongly to beat Divilabother by 14 lengths with Ollie La Ba Ba a further nine and a half lengths adrift in third.

Rothwell said, "When I got him, we dropped him in and he won two hurdles for us. We went over fences, he lost his confidence a little bit. He turned in going very well in Tipperary the last day, but from a slow pace just stayed going.

"We said we would make the running and try and change his mind a bit. His jumping at the top of the hill and at the last, he still wasn't brilliant, but I think that will give him a bit of confidence.

"He won well, but maybe an ordinary race. It is another winner, very happy.

"Calum is a very nice chap and a good rider."

Quotes by Michael Graham

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.