'He's been a revelation' - Innisfree Lad continues hot streak of Tom Symonds

A brilliant day for Tom Symonds may have peaked with Song For Someone's triumph in the International Hurdle at Cheltenham, but it began in similarly pleasing fashion when Innisfree Lad claimed his fourth win from five starts this season in the 3m1f handicap chase at Hereford.

The eight-year-old was one of many new Symonds recruits after he joined forces with David Dennis in the summer, with that merger proving hugely successful so far. Of trainers who have sent out over 50 runners this season, only Paul Nicholls has a better strike rate than Symonds.

"He's been a revelation and is the most beautiful horse. To win four races in a career is good, so to win four in a season is something else," Symonds.

"He, like others that have joined us, seems to have thrived on the change of scenery. If you had a yard full of horses like him you'd be laughing."

Innisfree Lad was a ready winner by seven and a half lengths under Rex Dingle, who is now two wins away from losing his claim.

New targets for Le Patriote

Le Patriote could be aimed at some valuable handicaps after improving his record this season to two wins from three starts over fences in the 2m novice chase.

Richard Newland: 'a two mile handicap chase on soft ground would suit Le Patriote'Credit: Grossick Photography

Fast Buck's fall two out left Le Patriote, ridden by Charlie Hammond, 15 lengths clear of Colin Tizzard's former Grade 1-winning novice hurdler Elixir De Nutz.

Winning trainer Richard Newland said: "I can't fault his performance and his jumping was the difference.

"We'll probably move towards looking for some decent handicaps for him. We haven't decided what yet but a nice two mile handicap chase on soft ground would suit him."

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