One-two for Elliott but Russell second again

Gordon Elliott saddled a one-two in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase but the returning Davy Russell, runner-up on his first ride back in the opener, again had to settle for second as Hurricane Georgie proved the stronger up the hill.

Russell looked set for victory on The Abbey when his mount struck the front travelling well at the second-last fence but it was the Jordan Gainford-partnered winner, who was in receipt of 22lb as a 4-year-old filly, who stayed on much the better on the run-in to win by five and a half lengths.

The daughter of Shirocco, who shortened from 9/2 to 10/3 just before the off, had been placed on her last three starts over hurdles and was making her chasing debut.

Winning trainer Gordon Elliott said: "I'd say the weight kicked in up the hill (on The Abbey).

"Jordan (Gainford) gave her a nice ride and she jumped well. That was great.

"She was solid over hurdles but this race was made for her as she was getting all the allowances."

Quotes from Michael Graham