Sandra Hughes planning easier mission for Sub Lieutenant

Sub Lieutenant will have his sights lowered after a fair effort in the Drinmore Novice Chase behind No More Heroes at Fairyhouse.

Sandra Hughes' six-year-old was doing all his best work at the finish to grab fourth in the Grade One over a trip short of his best.

A Grade Two winner over hurdles at Thurles last season, Hughes sees him possibly as a contender for the four-mile National Hunt Chase in March.

Hughes said: "I was delighted because he needs three miles as a minimum really. I was very happy and he'll go for a beginners' chase next.

"Michael (O'Leary, owner) is never frightened of running his horses in Grade Ones early in their career, he likes runners in the big races.

"We know he's good from his hurdles form and he stays all day. That trip was too short, but he was flying at the finish.

"I wouldn't be surprised if he ends up in the four-miler.

"He ran over two and a half at Aintree in April behind Nichols Canyon and that was too sharp for him, three miles will suit him much better in top company."