Rockholm Boy booked his ticket for the Guinness Kerry National at Listowel in a fortnight after successfully adopting front-running tactics under Paul Carberry in the Smirnoff Handicap Chase.
The Michael Hourigan-trained gelding, already winner of the Elan Midlands National at Kilbeggan this year, jumped well in the hands of championship leader Carberry, and stayed on gamely under pressure on the long run-in to beat Keeponthesunny by a length and a half.
'I have five entries for the Kerry National including this lad and Dorans Pride. Rockholm Boy will go to Listowel, while I plan to ride Dorans Pride in a charity race there on the opening day and then make a decision about the National', said Hourigan.
Bail Out The King settled the Galway City Vintners Rated Race in a matter of strides when quickening to the front at the furlong pole. Pat Smullen's mount drew clear to beat John Dorans Melody by five lengths.
Green Avenue, who is in foal to Taipan, ended her racing career on a winning note when stretching clear on the run-in for Charlie Swan to beat Temony by six lengths in the Cunningham Auctioneers Handicap Hurdle.
Lady Digby, owned and bred by Rolling Stones guitarist Ron Wood, was prominent throughout under Tadhg O'Shea to take the Tote Exacta Race by three lengths from the staying on Fearn Royal. O'Shea (22 wins) has now edged one ahead of Wayne Lordan in the apprentice championship.
[email protected]
