Alelchi good again at Galway

Alelchi Inois remains unbeaten over fences as his win in the Deacy Gilligan Ballybrit Novice Chase completed a Galway double for his trainer Willie Mullins and rider Paul Townend.

Now four in a row since embarking on life over the larger obstacles, the French-bred may have struggled to match the exuberant jumping of Enjoy Responsibly down the back.

However quick as a flash the successful 2/5 shot seized control of the race at the last and he wasn't hard pressed to come home four and a half lengths in front of Definite Ruby (the only mare in the six runner field).

As a 25/1 chance Shake The Bucket ran creditably to pick up third place money, three lengths back, in this Grade 3 affair.

"He was very good at the Festival and he was good again today. We didn't get our own way in front today but he went on in the dip and done it nicely," commented Townend, earlier a winner on Most Peculiar

He then disclosed: "For a big horse he is very economical and clever in his jumping and he is a joy to ride over fences. He couldn't have done it any better and hopefully he can keep on winning.

"He is a summer ground horse. He will get further but he has plenty of pace for two miles." (DM & EM)