Being in the front rank certainly paid off for Minella For Value in the two and a half mile beginners’ chase at Listowel as he avoided the carnage happening behind him throughout the race.

Davy Russell had John Nallen’s charge settled in second before the pair assumed the lead from Letter Of Credit on the home bend approaching two out.

Russell drove out the 7/2 favourite to hold the fast-finishing Flying Light (20/1) by a length and three parts. Gentleman Duke at 16/1 was third. Stop The Clock was a market springer from 13/2 to 4/1, however the money was left behind as he finished just out of the placings in fourth.

“He got a cut after his run in Bellewstown and he took a fierce blow after his run in Galway. He seemed to be better today for some reason. He jumped great and travelled to the line,” jockey Davy Russell said.

Russell picked up a one-day suspension for improper use of the whip on the winner.

Of the 16 horses that went to post, six failed to complete the course.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes