Matheson Handicap Chase provides pleasing result for McManus and O'Brien

The Grade B Matheson Handicap Chase at Leopardstown saw Simon Torrens’ first ride for Joseph O’Brien turn out to be a winner. A Wave Of The Sea (12/1) led home a one two for O’Brien and owner J P McManus, beating strong finisher Top Moon (50/1) by a neck.

Favourite The Shunter was unfortunate with a slipped saddle and he was impeded approaching the last. He ended up three and a half lengths back in third.

McManus and O’Brien also had the fourth, Entoucas (6/1).

Paddy Power go 12/1 first show non runner no bet about A Wave Of The Sea for the Grand Annual at Cheltenham.

“They've all ran well so far and it's nice to get a winner. I'm delighted to win a big one for JP,” said O'Brien.

“He struggled a little bit in graded company and then when you go into handicaps it's a different ball game, it just took him a couple of runs.

“The last day was a bit better and then today I thought he jumped very well, as good as he's jumped, and that was probably the difference.

“Simon is a good rider. He's been riding a bit of work for us and rides a bit of work for JP. He gave him a fantastic ride.

“He could easily go to Cheltenham. We'll see how he comes out of it and see what the handicapper does.”

J P McManus was on the mark in Grade One company earlier at Sandown with Sporting John.

D.E. Mullins, rider of Pont Aven trained by W.P. Mullins, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his felt his mount's stride shorten and he pulled up.

(GC & EM)