Bar makes winning start over fences Banter At The Bar powered clear before the last to make a winning start over fences in the opening Sky Bet Beginners Chase at Punchestown this afternoon. The Mouse Morris-trained gelding had been well held in three outings over hurdles last year but the point-to-point winner proved a different proposition over the larger obstacles. Gavin Brouder produced the 12/1 shot to challenge four from home in a strongly-run contest over two-miles-six. He went to the front turning for home and pulled away from John The Diva, after that rival made a mistake two from home, to record a cosy five-length success. Fences transform Banter At The Bar Frank Berry, racing manager for owner JP McManus, said:- “He wasn’t making much shape over hurdles, so fences have obviously done something for him. “He popped away there, and Gavin said he liked the slow ground and the trip. It couldn’t be far enough for him. “I don’t know what sort of race it was, but it was lovely to win it. He’ll probably tip away in handicaps and it’s grand to get a win with him.” (Quotes by Alan Magee)
