Battling Spirit proved well named as he stuck to his guns gamely to get off the mark over fences in the Urlingford Rated Chase at Thurles.

Jamie Codd held his mount up in the early stages of the two-and-a-half mile contest before taking closer order three from home.

The Jonathan Sweeney-trained 2/1 favourite gave chase to Tongie from the second last and stayed on to get on terms over the last.

The Vinnie Roe gelding found more on the run-in and he asserted in the closing stages for a two-and-a-half length success.

The winner had been second on his chase debut at Clonmel last month, chasing home Snugsborough Hall.

"It was good form from his run the last day and it is great for him to do that,” said Sweeney.

"He is an enthusiastic horse and Jamie was very good on him and he jumped super and did everything well.

"He could go back over hurdles but we'll see where there is a race for him next."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)