Son Of Mahler Clinches Second Hurdle Success

Battle Of Midway (5g Mahler - Womanofthemountain, by Presenting) fended off late challengers to take Tuesday’s Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse for Noel Meade and Gigginstown House Stud.

A bumper winner last season, the bay won his first start over hurdles at Galway last month and followed up with a fine second over three miles last time out. Dropping back to an extended two and a half miles on Tuesday, he was sent off favourite under Eoin Walsh, who rode him to make all. Joined from three out, he extended his advantage from the final flight, before Definite Plan and Fortune Street (Soldier Of Fortune) came with a late rally close home. All out, Battle Of Midway prevailed by a neck on the line.

Further improvement is expected from the winner when he takes to longer distances and larger obstacles, according to his trainer, who said, “It was a long last furlong! He stays, loves soft ground and jumps well. He was given a great ride too. I don't think three miles will be a problem. When he went to Cork last time there were two things against him: the ground was too quick and it came very soon after his previous win at Galway. He'll be a nice chaser next year.”

By Beeches Stud sire Mahler, Battle Of Midway was bred by Gabriel Fahy, who sold him as a store through Moanbaun Stables for €50,000.