El Jo benefits from Rock Diplomat's exit

The second odds-on favourite in succession was over-turned at Thurles today, when 4/7 favourite Rock Diplomat fell at the seventh fence in the Ballycahill Beginners Chase, leaving the way clear for El Jo to win.

Following El Jo's battling neck win over Island Wood winning trainer Michael Hourigan stated "El Jo has been a little unlucky to have won just two races and is definately a better horse when fresh. He won't run next until St Patrick's Day at the earliest."