Tranquil Sea stamped his class on proceedings at Leopardstown today as he warmed up for the Ryanair Chase with a stylish victory in the Newlands Chase.
Andrew McNamara sent his mount to the front after the second last but looked to have plenty on his plate going to the last in the Grade 2 event.
Edward O'Grady 's charge found another gear on the run-in, however, to go away for a cosy two-and-a-half length success over Natal
"It isn't often things go as much to plan as that. Hopefully it's onwards and upwards and I couldn't have asked for more," said O'Grady.
"The owners decided we would be as well off runnning for €26,000 as schooling after racing.
"It was a very delicate balancing act as we wanted a bit of work and wanted to win the race but didn't want him to have a hard race. It worked out well.
"Hopefully he'll come on for the race. It's his first Graded Chase and if he improves from it he must have a shout (in the Ryanair).
"He has won on soft but I think he's better on better ground and I think he should come to hand in the spring."
Boylesports trimmed the winner from 6/1 to 5/1 for the Ryanair Chase while Paddy Power now go 11/2.
