Nutcracker enjoys return to level

The Nutcracker landed a gamble when running out a cosy winner of the second division of the Simonstown Handicap at Navan.

Tom Gibney 's charge was backed from 13/2 this morning and eventually went off 10/3 favourite on course.

Seamie Heffernan settled his mount in mid-division in the ten furlong contest before making progress two furlongs from home.

She hit the front inside the final furlong and was pulling clear at the line for a four-and-a-half length success.

The winner had shown decent form over hurdles this season, including winning at Ballinrobe in May, and was making her first start on the level since last November.

"We knew she was thrown in on her hurdles form but she is well named! It was her first run back on the flat and Andrew Lynch has done a great job settling her," said Gibney.

"I'm delighted to get that, it opens up her options. She's versatile and the ground is no bother to her. I couldn't believe how well she handled Listowel (third last week)."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)