Talented Son Of Westerner Gains First Win Over Fences

Port Of Mars (7g Westerner - Sarahall, by Saddlers’ Hall) confirmed his earlier promise over fences when running out a ten length winner of the Beginners’ Chase at Hereford on Monday afternoon.

A winner and Grade 2 placed over hurdles, the Olly Murphy-trained bay was placed on his first two starts over fences and stepped up to three miles and one furlong on his third attempt. He tracked the leaders under Aidan Coleman, improving into second from three out and was ridden to lead after the second last, keeping on well for a clear-cut victory.

Port Of Mars’ in-form trainer was pleased with his charge’s performance and later said, “That was a fair novice chase. He's a grand type and he's one of those horses for those big staying handicaps for next year, he'll win plenty of races. He'll have an entry in the National Hunt Chase.”

Owned by Noel and Valerie Moran, Port Of Mars was bought by Murphy after winning a point-to-point on debut for Sophie Lacey. He is one of three winners by Westerner bred by James Barry out of Sarahall, herself a half-sister to Grade 3 winner What A Warrior (Westerner).