Ladalko claims Warwick success

Ladalko overcame some jumping problems for the win

The favourite Ladalko powered away late on for victory in the Totesport Classic Chase at Warwick on Saturday.

Ruby Walsh had the 9-2 chance nicely placed throughout and moved to challenge long-time leader Naunton Brook between the final two fences.

The Paul Nicholls-trained eight-year-old jumped the final fence safely and stretched his advantage to the line.

Mon Mome edged past Naunton Brook to pip him for second.

Meanwhile, the 20-1 outsider Verasi put in a strong late charge to triumph in the Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle at Kempton.

Eamon Dehdashti's mount started to challenge coming into the home straight but Royals Darling, ridden by Andrew Tinkler, kept with him.

Although Royals Darling took the lead briefly, his rival, trained by Gary Moore, finished stronger to claim the win and give Dehdashti the biggest success of his career so far.

Run over two miles and five furlongs for the first time, rather than the usual two miles, much of the early pace was set by Afrad, who eventually held on to finish third.

But the favourite Racing Demon failed to finish after parting company with jockey Graham Lee on the back straight while moving to challenge.

Trainer Henrietta Knight had opted to run the seven-year-old back over fences for racing experience after he finished third in the King George Chase on Boxing Day.

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Totesport Classic Chase
1. Ladalko (R Walsh) 9-2 Fav
2. Mon Mome (S Thomas) 5-1
3. Naunton Brook (Mr D England) 14-1
13 ran. Dist 4, 1

Lanzarote Hurdle
1. Verasi (E Dehdashti) 20-1
2. Royals Darling (A Tinkler) 25-1
3. Afrad (M A Fitzgerald) 9-1
4. Nation State (J E Moore) 14-1
17 ran. Dist: 1,¾