The Colin McKeever-trained Chosen Mate shaped like a vastly improved performer on just his second career outing at Loughbrickland following a summer’s break when running out a very convincing winner. Patiently ridden by Derek O’Connor, the son of Well Chosen produced an eye-catching turn of foot to sweep through the inside of runners approaching the fourth-last to hit the front. From that point onwards, he always travelled best of all, and comfortably had the measure of his rivals on the uphill climb for the straight. His jumping proved to be a real asset also as he stretsmched the field out, and only briefly had to be shaken-up after the last, before ultimately crossing the line with his rider sat motionless in the saddle to account for a horse that was an unlucky final fence faller in the spring.