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Sandymount Duke to be aimed at Galway Plate

Sandymount Duke on his way to winning the Guinness Novice Hurdle
Image: Sandymount Duke is on track to return to Galway

Jessica Harrington has set her sights on the Galway Plate with Sandymount Duke after he claimed a third win on the bounce at Leopardstown on Thursday evening.

The eight-year-old, who races in the colours of owner-breeder Ronnie Wood, made a successful switch to the Flat to win in the hands of Harrington's daughter Kate, supplementing recent chase victories at Punchestown and Down Royal.

Sandymount Duke triumphed by five lengths and Harrington is now looking forward to the feature event at Galway on August 2.

She said: "I thought a mile and seven (furlongs) might be a bit short for him and the only way to ride him is to bowl along. I think he got such a fright coming out of the stalls that it took a little while to get in front, but she said he was super all the way.

"He loves that ground and bounces off it. It's the Galway Plate now and we'll see what happens. He won't mind if the ground is a bit slower.

"He's won 10 races now - a flat race, bumper, hurdles and chases. He's become a part of the furniture.

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"I think Ronnie is going to come to Galway. I was talking to him there (by phone) and he's thrilled."

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