A New Story looks set for a hike in the weights after running out an impressive winner of the Paddy Power Cork Grand National yesterday.
Niall Madden produced the well supported 3/1 favourite to lead at the second last in 3m4f contest and he sprinted clear before the final fence to beat Fatherofthebride by eight lengths.
Michael Hourigan's gelding was racing from 5lb out of the handicap in the 45,000 event and the performance is sure to have caught the handicapper's eye.
'He's been a good money spinner,' said Hourigan afterwards. 'He couldn't win a bumper or point-to-point but just needed time.
'He'll probably go for the Paddy Power Chase at Christmas. He probably won a bit far from 5lb out of the handicap but should still be competitive.'
Hourigan had initiated a double in the previous race when Just also ran out a stylish winner.
Denis O'Regan's mount cruised into the lead two out, in the Munster Handicap Hurdle, and was not extended to beat Merrylas by two-and-a-half lengths.
O'Regan also bagged a brace as he had earlier landed the paddypower.com Handicap Hurdle aboard Whatareyouhaving.
Henry de Bromhead's gelding was repeating last year's success in the Listed event when leading two out and staying on gamely to beat Brogella by a length-and-a-half.
The Fingersmith had been a fortunate winner of the opening INH Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle when benefiting from the last flight fall of Mister Top Notch.
Winning owner JP McManus went on to record a double when the Christy Roche-trained Cool Running made a winning debut over hurdles in the www.corkracecourse.ie Maiden Hurdle.
Farmer Grant flew home to grab the spoils in the paddypower.com Handicap Chase while the bumper went to You Sir, who carried the Limestone Lad colours to victory.
