Lough camp eye Fontwell spirit

Lough Derg could bid to win the totesport.com National Spirit Hurdle at Fontwell for a third time following a fine effort in defeat on Saturday.

David Pipe’s admirable 11-year-old took the West Sussex feature in 2008 and 2009 but ran way below par in the two-and-a-half-mile Grade Two event last February.

However, he showed his well-being when finishing a creditable third under the steadier of 11st 10lb to Tiger O’Toole in the Holloway’s Hurdle at Ascot.

A return trip to Berkshire is an alternative being considered by the Nicholashayne trainer.

“He’s come out of it really well. It was great to see him run such a fantastic race,” said Pipe.

“He’s an amazing horse and it was lovely to see him run the way he did.

“He may go back to Ascot for another two-mile-three race or he may go to Fontwell for the race he’s won before, the National Spirit.”