STEADY gallops were a feature of the action at Lingstown last Sunday where Grangeclare West (93+) suggested that he has all the talent to back up the €62,000 fee that his connections paid to secure him as a three-year-old.

All nine runners were covered by three lengths heading into the final half furlong, such was the tempo that was set, however the son of Presenting was always catching the eye and more than stamped his authority on the race, extending the advantage notably in the closing stages.

The third, fourth and fifth horses had all achieved ratings in excess of 80 already this season to provide all the required confidence to suggest it was a performance full of depth.

Stable companion Viva Lavilla (92+) was forced to dig deeper in more a strongly run race, while The King Of Ryhope (90+) looks value for more than the winning margin having erred at the last.

Paddy The Horse (91+) had already proven himself behind the Fairyhouse bumper runner-up Split The Bucket at Curraghmore, and he appeared to have the measure of his rivals at Boulta when his two closest pursuers exited at the penultimate fence. He is progressing all the while, as too is Templebredin (102) who has developed into an ultra-tough performer and beat a 147 track-rated Paul Nicholls recruit for his first success in open company.

Miss Tempo (81+) outstayed Dinah Washington, while Connies Choice (92+) overcame getting trapped wide on the home bend to make a winning debut.

A day earlier at Kirkistown, On The Sod (106+) consistently outjumped Lite Duties (95) to complete his rise through the ranks. His jumping was an asset on this first step into open company and having previously proven to be at his best in winter ground, he is coming into his time of the year.

Carrig Sam (92+) produced a stamina-laden performance to provide the first boost of the Ginto form, while Kates Hill (78+), Outside The Ring (87+) and Ringneill (90++) all recorded successes with what seemed a good deal in hand to suggest that they have more to offer for future assignments.