Pistol follows up as Cooper loses his claim

Pistol Jack followed up on his recent win at Kilbeggan to score in the Ryans Event Cleaners Handicap Chase for his trainer Dessie Hughes with Bryan Cooper aboard.

The winning son of Pistol Bleu was recording his third career win today, having won a Handicap hurdle in Down Royal back in November of '09, before winning last time out at in a Handicap Chase Kilbeggan just over a week ago.

The 9yo chased the leaders early on and was fifth, five fences from home. He was travelling best in second after the last and then moved into the lead entering the straight. He was ridden out from there to assert in the closing stages. Cool Warrior ran well to finish second just a length behind at 16/1, Lock Mor Lad finished a further four lengths back in third at 18/1, while front running Hatton's Wood completed the placings a short head back in fourth at 12/1.

Winning trainer Dessie Hughes said afterwards: "He did it well, he's improving. He likes this ground and jumped well. He will probably go to Kilbeggan on Friday now. Bryan (Cooper) gave him a good ride, as he needed a lead because he tends to idle in front."

Winning rider Cooper who is just nineteen lost his claim after winning the race.

Donal Murphy