Mountain off the mark over fences

Blackstairmountain stamped his class on proceedings to run out an effortless winner of the Clonmel Supporters Club Beginners Chase.

The only scare for backers of the 8/15 hotpot came at the second last as the Imperial Ballet gelding got low and brushed through the fence.

Ruby Walsh, completing a double on the card for trainer Willie Mullins, settled his mount behind the leaders before taking closer order turning for home.

He had Shane Rock in his sights at the penultimate fence and his error there proved only a minor inconvenience.

Walsh had a ton of horse underneath him going to the last and once he popped that he cruised into the lead.

The winner had any amount in hand as he recorded a three-length success on his chase debut.

The six-year-old was recording his first success since landing the Grade One Champion Novice Hurdle at Punchestown in 2010.

"Bar the mistake two out he seemed to take to jumping fences well," said Mullins.

"He'll probably stay at that trip and we'll try and find a winners race for him. We'll see how he comes out this before deciding where he goes next."

100/1 shot Marble House was a surprise package as he stayed on to claim the runner-up spot.