Blackmore & de Bromhead double-up with Popova

Popova completed a double for Rachael Blackmore and Henry de Bromhead, as she claimed an incident packed Walter Hennessy Auctioneer, Valuer And Estate Agent MIPAV TRV MCEI Mares Beginners Chase.

A dual winner over flights, the David Maughan-owned seven-year-old raced in mid-division before taking closer order on the approach to the straight.

In a share of the lead with Judicieuse Allen (2/1jf) from two out, she gained a narrow lead before the last and was soon left clear by the fall of her aforementioned rival, eventually coming home eight-lengths to the good.

A stable companion of the winner, Still Ciel (12/1) filled the runner-up spot under Darragh O'Keeffe, while Iris Emery (16/1) was another nine lengths away in third.

The winner came in for plenty of market support and was returned a 2/1 joint-favourite from early shows of 5/1.

After unseating at the second, Costanuci hampered a number of runners before fourth, with Idol unseating Phillip Enright as a result.

"She jumped great and stayed at it really well. She stays well so we'll look for something similar," de Bromhead, who took the opener with Bowmore commented.

"I'm delighted for the Maughans who are great supporters and it’s lovely to have them down here."

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Media Naranja trained by Gordon Elliott, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee