Heath swoops late to get off the mark Lady Mary Heath swooped from last to first to claim the mile handicap at Punchestown for trainer Aidan Howard. The Dragon Pulse filly was backed from 10/1 into 10/3 favourite but had plenty to do turning for home. Chris Hayes had to switch out under two furlongs from home as he found himself in rear. His mount picked up strongly to lead inside the final furlong and record a two-and-a-half length win. It was a first success for Lady Mary Heath, who had been a close fifth on her most recent outing at the Curragh. "She was very unlucky the last day. It was great to get her to win before the end of the year,” said Howard. “She handles that sort of ground and I'd say stepping up to a mile helped as well." The winner was bred and is owned by Fran Berry's mother Claire. (Quotes by John O’Riordan)
