WHAT is already shaping up to be a momentous season for 5lb claimer Darragh O’Keeffe took yet another turn for the better as he notched up a first Galway Festival triumph on Ilikedwayurthinkin.

The Tote-sponsored 88-123 two-and-a-half-mile handicap hurdle saw the J.P. McManus-owned gelding make his first appearance since March and this was his second outing since his eye-catching fifth at Fairyhouse in December.

The son of Yeats was as big as 11/2 in the morning but was returned a strongly supported 2/1 favourite and won with any amount to spare. Gavin Cromwell’s charge left his rivals toiling in vain from the turn in to score by six and a half lengths and, in truth, he could have won by double that margin.

“The step-up in trip was a big help. He’s had plenty of problems as a young horse and was very sore after Fairyhouse so the break he had did him good,” remarked the trainer.

Inexpensive

The ability of Tom Mullins to source inexpensive talent was yet again in evidence in the Sign Up For A Tote Account Irish EBF Mares’ Handicap Hurdle where Bercasa (10/1), who cost a mere €3,000 as a yearling, took her earnings past €50,000.

The capable four-year-old, who is owned by the trainer’s wife Helen, looked to have her rivals covered some way from home and she prevailed by three and a half lengths. This was the third year in succession that the father and son have combined for a festival winner.

“I thought that she had improved at home and I was hoping she’d bring that to the track. She’s in the sales (Goffs UK) next week but I’m not sure if she will go,” declared the trainer.