Duroob boost for Brady in Ulster Grand National

Trainer Oliver Brady received a welcome boost when Duroob, ridden by Adrian Heskin, won the marathon Toals Bookmakers Ulster Grand National in Downpatrick yesterday, getting the better of fellow lightweight and favourite Talab by three lengths.

Brady has been battling ill-health for some time, but savoured this victory, Duroob’s first over fences, explaining to onlookers: “I had a heart attack early in January and, three weeks ago, the doctors told me I wouldn’t see another winner, never mind a racetrack. But Jesus is with me and this wee horse is a cracker.

“He won four over hurdles and this is first chase win. He’s only a handy horse but needs a trip. He loves it around here and jumps like a buck We’ll see what the handicapper does to him now.