Chief proves game for O'Regan

Kansas City Chief repelled all challengers to claim the three-mile one-furlong handicap chase in good style at Punchestown.

Denis O’Regan had his mount to the fore throughout and he responded well in the closing stages to land the spoils. Space Cadet looked a big danger going to the last but Mary Louise Hallahan’s charge found plenty on the run-in to assert.

The 14/1 shot was eased up close home for a cosy two-and-three-quarter-length success.

Kansas City Chief was completing for the first time since winning his beginners chase at Thurles in March. He had unseated at Fairyhouse last time and run out on his last visit here.

O'Regan said afterwards:- "His jumping kept him in it, and he kept finding for me. He has plenty of experience and stayed really well."

(Quotes by Alan Magee)