Coolfighter (far right) swoops to conquer© Photo Healy Racing
Five jumped the last in contention in the two-mile five-furlong handicap hurdle at Tramore with Coolfighter emulating earlier winner Icelip by recording his fourth course success.
Noel Dooly 's charge had last tasted victory in October 2016 at Gowran but was supported tonight from 22/1 in the morning into a 12/1 shot on track.
He settled out the back, under James O'Sullivan, before being driven up to challenge at the final flight.
The ten-year-old stayed on best, on the outer, in the closing stages to post a two-and-a-half length win over Fleurys Fort
Dooly said:- "He loves this place. I fancied him. He is a horse that is hard to get fit, you can work him all you like at home, but there is nothing better than a race.
“He's had three or four runs leading up to this. He ran in Clonmel and ran well, but I had to give him another run on the Flat at Leopardstown just to get him right for here. The boys wanted to come here, they told me that they wanted to win this race at Christmas time! It's grand when it works out.
"I was surprised he was 25/1 last night. I suppose he hasn't got the gears for the Flat anymore and that run at Leopardstown probably put a lot of people off.
"He loves the ups and downs around here. It's great for the owners after Masterchippy broke his leg earlier (in the fourth race).
"He'll tip away for the summer and he will probably come back here in August."
(Quotes by Donal Murphy)
