Bay Hill has proved a grand servant to connections over the past 11 months and, having opened his account at Killarney last August, returned to the Co. Kerry track to make it career win number four in the Dermot O'Leary Memorial Handicap.

Fran Berry oozed confidence on the Christy Roche-trained top-weight who travelled well to challenge two furlongs out, although the 11/2 chance needed to be driven out inside the final furlong. Malicious Intent came home strongly to get within three quarters of a length, with Tunnel Tiger a further two lengths back in third. Brog Deas Nua was all the rage having been available at 6/1 this morning and further supported on course from 5/2 into 7/4.

The favourite didn't enjoy the clearest of passages over a furlong but could only keep on at one pace to take fourth.

Berry said, "He enjoyed the longer trip (1m3f) but it was the concern. It was a good performance over a shorter trip at Listowel but I didn't know if he'd get home from the furlong pole today.

"He relaxed very well, got a good position and stayed on really well.

"He is a quirky bugger and has ability on a going day but he is enjoying his racing at the moment."

(TW & AM)