Balnaslow gets off the mark over fences

Balnaslow was a cosy winner of the beginners chase at Thurles under a confident Davy Russell.

The Gigginstown gelding was sent off a 4/6 shot for the 2m6f contest after a highly promising debut over fences at Gowran earlier in the month when second to the smart Art Of Logistics.

The step up in trip today was always likely to suit Willie Mullins' charge and despite some sticky jumping at times he was well on top at the end.

Russell popped his mount out in front and he shook off the attentions of Western Man turning for home. Hunting Party came through to give chase but never looked like pegging back the winner, who coasted home from the last for a length-and-a-quarter success.

“He loves that ground and he'll be finishing up around now (before the winter). Fences will improve him,” said Russell afterwards.

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)