Captains Nephew shows battling qualities to land Listed race for Rothwell

Trainer Philip Rothwell who has enjoyed a tremendous season to date recorded a notable success with Captains Nephew in the Listed BoyleSports, Proud Sponsors Since 2014 Novice Handicap Chase at Fairyhouse.

Always prominent under James O'Sullivan, the Tom Doran owned seven-year-old tracked leader Mount Frisco throughout, with the pair having the race between them from before three out.

Travelling easily the better of the duo, Captains Nephew took a narrow lead jumping two out but a slow jump at the last allowed Mount Frisco another chance. Both horses were neck and neck entering the last 200 yards but the Rothwell trained gelding just pulled out that bit extra.

Philip Rothwell said: “James felt that there was no touch or bump and is reasonably confident that everything should be okay.

“Tom (Doran) has been a huge supporter and I’m delighted for him.

“The tongue tie slipped in Thurles the last day and he didn’t see out his race. Maybe the ground was too quick for him.

“His form up to then was mighty and this race was the aim for a while.”

Winning jockey James O'Sullivan added: "He was(good and tough). I got a dream run around. He jumped from fence to fence. I was winging fences, taking him back and filling him.

"I can't thank Tom Doran(owner) enough. I have ridden four or five winners for him this season. He has been a great supporter."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee.