Walk In The Park Gelding Progresses To Listed Success

A step up in trip saw Canal End (7g Walk In The Park – Aladiyna, by Indian Danehill) get off the mark over fences in the Listed Irish Stallion Farms EBF Novice Handicap Chase Final at Navan.

Peter Fahey’s charge had proven his stamina when Listed-placed over hurdles, and after placing in a two-and-a-half-mile chase last time out, was sent off favourite on Saturday. Settled towards the back of the field by Mark Walsh, the JP McManus-owned bay began to make headway from the fourth last and produced a challenge two fences later. He led at the final fence and kept on well to score by four and a half lengths.

“We haven't had the best of seasons, so it's great for Canal End to come out and do something in a nice race like that,” said the winning trainer. “It's a great end to the season and I'm looking forward to getting him out again. We'll try and find another chase for him between Fairyhouse and Punchestown.

“We mapped out today after his run in Naas the last day. The ground was very heavy there and Mark [Walsh, jockey] said he didn't really travel in it, but he galloped the whole way to the line.”

The improving son of Walk In The Park was bred by Mr And Mrs L & A Gleeson.