Chosen Mate makes impressive return at Killarney

Raphael and Stephen Mooney (nearest) wins the Kelly Farm Modernisation Ltd. Apprentice Handicap at Killarney last night. Picture: Healy Racing

Following on from his four winners in Downpatrick, Gordon Elliott added one at Killarney for good measure, and it proved to be the easiest winner on the card: Chosen Mate, in the first division of the MC Construction Qualified Riders’ Maiden.

Settled close to the pace by Lisa O’Neill, the Grand Annual winner moved easily to challenge long-time leader Polished Steel early in the straight and picked up under little pressure to beat Nibblers Charm, with Peregrine Run staying on into third place. “The horses all seem to be in great form, and he did it very well,” said O’Neill. “He travelled away most of the way around and jumped on the bridle at the two-furlong pole like a fresh horse. Hopefully it’s the start of a good season for him.”