Rare Bob justified good support (10/1 to 7/1) with a hard-earned victory in the Boylesports.com Champion Novice Chase.
Paddy Flood 's mount struck the front two out, where Cooldine (8/11-5/6fav) made a mistake along with Joncol and the Bob Back gelding stayed on gamely under pressure to beat Gone To Lunch by a length and three quarters.
Joncol was just a head further back in third, while Cooldine weakened dramatically to finish another 18 lengths away in fourth. Willie Mullins reported that Cooldine 'ran flat'.
'He's got a terrific cruising pace and is learning to quicken off it. He's a Grade 1 horse now who stays and has a bit of class,' said trainer Dessie Hughes.
'He'll probably start back here next season in the Durkan Chase, and hopefully is good enough to run in the good races,' he added.
