HAITI COULEURS WON'T FADE

Curtis’ star triumphs for home team in Welsh Grand National

- BY JOE REILLY

HAITI COULEURS hit back to record a hugely popular success in the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow.

Trained by Newport-based Rebecca Curtis, the superstar ended last term by landing the Irish version at Fairyhouse, only to flop in the Betfair Chase over 3m 1f at Haydock last month.

The tough gelding was still a well-backed 5/1 shot for this more suitable 3m 6f handicap and was always prominent under Welsh-born Sean Bowen.

The duo were cheered by the patriotic home support as they led entering the second circuit and they had most of their rivals in trouble three out.

The eight-year-old began to toil under his welter-burden two out and faced a challenge from the staying-on O'Connell (9/1).