Davy Russell continues to keep a close eye on the leaders in the Jump Jockeys Championship, partnering his 48th winner of the season on Roi Du Mee in the Follow Us On Facebook Novice Chase at Punchestown today.

Russell moved the French bred son of Lavirco to the front three out before eventually stretching clear for an easy 11 lengths win over Bob Lingo

Afterwards winning trainer Gordon Elliott stated “Roi Du Meee did it well and, like a lot of mine at the moment, seems to be improving a lot. He has really come on a lot on his last couple of runs and will go for Grade 2 Nas Na Riogh Novice Steeplechase at Naas on February 20 next.”

The win leaves Russell eight winners behind leader Paul Townend at the head of the Jockeys' Championship.

Thomas Weekes