Close Shave, right, conquers his rivals in Fairyhouse© Photo Healy Racing
Close Shave gave Barry Geraghty a winner on his return from injury when staying on stoutly in the two and a half mile handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse.
The six-year-old gelding was fourth behind Bilbo Bagins at Navan last month but overturned that form today at 9/2 (backed in from 13/2).
He made progress into fourth after the third last and jumped the penultimate hurdle in third, just behind Slicker City and First To Boogie
He was soon ridden by Geraghty to mount his challenge at the last. The duo wore down Slicker City on the run-in to win by three parts of a length from fellow JP McManus horse Travertine (20/1) who finished very strongly for the runner-up berth.
Slicker City (8/1) and First To Boogie (25/1) completed the placings in this 16-runner contest.
Jessica Harrington said: "He was too keen at Navan last time and is still a bit keen. He's a real old fashioned three-mile chaser and will not stay over hurdles for too long.
"Barry said the penny is only starting to drop now and he won't run on anything but soft ground."
Harrington sealed a double on the card with this victory. She also landed the beginners' chase with Woodland Opera
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
