No Thanks too good for hotpot Sarah Beara

Sent off the even money favourite, Sarah Beara ultimately had to settle for the runner-up spot in the CJ Sheeran Ltd Handicap Hurdle, with No Thanks coming out on top under Keith Donoghue.

Second on his most recent try over flights, the Matthew Smith-trained victor ran twice at Galway and was sent off an easy-to-back 8/1 chance this evening.

Always toward the head of affairs, he improved into a share of the lead four out and was pushed to the front after the second last.

Ridden on the outer in the straight, he found plenty for pressure and came home two-and-three-quarters of a length to the good.

Due to go up 16lb for winning easily at Wexford on Friday, Sarah Beara was expected to follow-up under a mandatory 7lb winners penalty.

While she pecked on landing when disputing second at the last, the Sam Curling-trained five-year-old still had every chance on the run-in, but was comfortably held at the line.

There was another two-and-a-quarter lengths back to Sixhandsinmypocket (7/1) in third, while Knocknagappagh (11/1) was fourth.

"He got a fall last year in Navan and cracked a bone in his knee. He was fine after it but just needed a bit of time off," Smith revealed.

"He ran a good race here on his last run over hurdles and then went to Galway. He disappointed the first day there after getting a bit upset in the stalls but then ran a good race the second day.

"The ground just didn't suit a few of mine at Galway, one or two of them ran well, but a lot of mine want decent ground so that caught out some of them.

"It's nice to get back amongst the winners with this lad and Keith gave him a great ride."

STEWARDS REPORTS

Gordon Elliott, trainer of Townhill Penny reported to the Clerk of Scales that his charge pulled a shoe and scoped dirty post race.

Additional reporting by Mark Nunan