Firefox too hot for Grade 2 rivals Gordon Elliott claimed the Kildress Plumbing Chase for the fourth year in-a-row, as his Firefox led home four rivals in this Grade 2 heat. Successful at this two-day fixture 12-months ago and running well in defeat in five starts since, the Bective Stud-owned seven-year-old was last seen finishing second at the highest level at Fairyhouse in April. Expected to register a sixth career win this afternoon, the 151-rated bay was sent off the clear favourite at 8/11 and raced in third under Jack Kennedy. Taking closer order in second from two out, the market leader travelled best on the extended run to the final fence, getting to the front shortly before that obstacle. While not fluent there, he was ridden out on the run-in and readily drew clear of the front-running Gorgeous Tom (9/4 from 11/4), with four-and-a-quarter lengths between them at the line. "In fairness, he had been competing at the top end the whole time but a good performance," Elliott, who was completing a double along with Kennedy, reflected. "I thought Jack gave him a very, very good ride and just landed him there at the right time. "Nice to win. "He's a good horse, but the problem is you are always taking on those real good horses the whole time." STEWARDS REPORT Owing to the low lying sun, the Raceday Stewards granted permission for fences two and three to be omitted from this race Additional reporting by Michael Graham
