Nearly a fortnight on from his Aintree heroics and there could only be one combination for the win in the Congratulations Minella Times Beginners Chase at Kilbeggan. Yes it was Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore at the number one following the nightcap, as Cavalry Master stylishly completed a hat-trick for the trainer and jockey in their season of seasons.

Wins on The Cathal Don An Taibhse and now Cavalry Master leaves Blackmore trailing Paul Townend by just four (95 plays 91) heading into the closing Punchestown Festival next week.

Of course the participation of Townend at Punchestown hasn’t yet been confirmed, and the Tipperary woman is heading to County Kildare with serious momentum in any case. Paddy Power bet 1/5 Paul, 7/2 Rachael.

Cavalry Master clearly is very much at home at Kilbeggan for his local owners, Gigginstown House Stud, the grey gaining a second win at the course by an easy nine and a half lengths from Blackhillsofdakota

“He won really well. He won a bumper around here,” reflected Blackmore.

“That was a step up in trip but he seemed to handle it really well. I think he prefers the nicer ground.”

C.J. Orr, rider of The Second Coming trained by Ciaran Murphy, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount pulled up injured.

(AM & EM)