Spot Thedifference takes overdue win

Spot Thedifference won for the first time in almost three years when taking the Quins Of Baltinglasss Chase (for the La Touche Cup) over four and a quarter miles at Punchestown.

Favourite when unseating his rider in this race 12 months ago, Spot Thedifference led between the last two fences and steadily drew away to win by 14 lengths.

The 3-1 shot, ridden by JT McNamara and trained by Enda Bolger, lifted the marathon contest from Shady Lad (14-1), who pipped Clawick Connection (40-1) for second place.

Bolger said: “I was a bit worried they left out the bank heading for home but it was an excellent race.

“He hasn’t won for three years so it’s great to see him in the winner’s enclosure.

“He ran a great race at Aintree (fifth in the Martell Cognac Grand National). I sat down with JT (McNamara) and we discussed how to ride the horse as he often gets detached. He gave him a great ride today.”