Eiri Na Casca nips through on inner for Hogan

Eiri Na Casca recorded his third handicap chase win inside the last 12 months when successful for trainer/rider Denis Hogan in the Donal Downes Handicap Chase at Ballinrobe.

The seven-year-old gelding had shown little in two recent outings and was sent off at 14/1 against 12 rivals.

However Hogan went for a daring run up the inner approaching the second last and, while somewhat fortunate not to be carried out, it proved a winning move.

Previously successful at Tramore and Naas, Eiri Na Casca kept on well on the run-in to beat Curragh Golan by four lengths, with Garrai Phaidin another length adrift in third.

Hogan said, “I thought it was déjà vu from Killarney with Misdflight (carried out at the third last Thursday). It opened up for me off the turn (before two out) and they saw me late enough and tried to close the door. I had plenty of horse and was gone through, and jumped the last before going away to win nicely.

“I wasn’t sure about the trip (2m7f) and thought whatever chance I have of winning was to drop in. They went a good gallop and he worked his way into it.

“I’m delighted for Adrian (McNamara, owner) who is a great supporter of mine.”