Clear Quartz secured his third win at Galway

Clear Quartz secured his third win at Galway, continuing Mark Fahey's successful run in the Donnellys Of Barna Rated Race.

After a slow start, the grey owned by Jean Bird, who had previously won at the festival in July, quickly recovered and moved into mid-division under Ronan Whelan. Although he encountered some tight conditions on the inside approaching the straight, he was soon switched to the outer and urged forward from the furlong pole.

With a strong finish in the final 100 yards, the seven-year-old Slade Power gelding overtook his rivals to win by half a length. Monasterboice (3/1f), aiming for a fourth consecutive win, was narrowly beaten into second, while San Aer (9/2) finished another two lengths behind in third.

Fahey praised Whelan's ride, saying, "He can be difficult at the stalls, but Ronnie was fantastic once again. He’s exceptional at Galway, handling the situation calmly and making the right move inside."

Fahey added, "The horse thrives here, and if there's a suitable race for him in October, he'll definitely run. We’d also love to return for the festival next year. He’s a fantastic horse, loved by Jean and everyone at home."