Itsalonglongroad graduates to chasing arena with aplomb

Itsalonglongroad (12/1) made a winning start over fences with a stylish success in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase at Downpatrick.

John McConnell and Mark Bolger combined with the hooded son of Lawman, and the six-year-old achieved victory in the two and a quarter miler with a nice front running performance.

Given his profile with two Flat and a hurdle win already in the locker, it was no surprise that Itsalonglongroad would display a change of gear to put the race to bed from the last. Thisonesforollie and Zagnzig (a 125/1 chance) chased home at distances of four lengths and a half length.

"A great run for his first run over fences. John (McConnell) was happy with his schooling at home,” reported Bolger.

"He's not an easy horse to settle in a race, so the fact he jumped so well we said we would make use of it.

"I got an easy time of it in front and he has galloped all the way to the line.

"I got a good breather into him coming down the hill and was able to fill him right up and he toughed it out to the line.

"There's room for improvement in every way. He should be a nice horse going forward.

"It's lovely good ground and that's what he wants."

(MG & EM)