Novarov (nearest) swoops to claim Castle Wings© Photo Healy Racing
Novarov s stamina came to the fore as he got up in the closing stages to make a winning debut over fences at Gowran Park.
John O'Shea's charge was a big improver over hurdles last year, excelling over three miles, and had a career high mark of 135 over timber.
He was sent off a 8/1 on his chasing bow and settled mid-division in the early stages of the two-and-a-half mile contest.
Sean McDermott took closer order on his mount up the back straight but he looked under pressure as he was ridden along in sixth before the straight.
The Sholokhov gelding started to stay on approaching the last, however, and really got motoring on the run-in to grab Castle Wings in the closing stages for a three-parts-of-a-length victory.
Toon River was sent off the 4/1 favourite but faded when headed three out after making most of the running.
“We were planning on going to the Pertemps (final at Cheltenham) with him but felt he couldn't win off such a high mark and he seems to be better going right-handed,” revealed O'Shea.
“It might not seem the best thing to win a beginners chase at this time of year but I couldn't see him taking on big weights in novices as he's a narrow light framed horse.
“He'll be aimed at those long distance handicap chases over three miles plus.”
Dublin-based owner Sarah Foran, who works for Red Mills, missed the victory with O'Shea reporting:- “She's in Mongolia on business. Hopefully they have a Paddy Power out there!”
(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)
