Rivage completes quick double for Russell

Davy Russell notched a quick double at Thurles this afternoon when Rivage D'Or opened his account over fences in the beginners chase.

Dessie Hughes' charge could only manage third when sent off a short price on his chasing debut at Tipperary earlier this month but made no mistake this time.

Russell employed similar tactics to the day's first winner Shop Dj settling in the pack early before making his move turning for home.

The Gigginstown gelding jumped into contention at the second last and was asked to hit the front going to the final fence.

The 9/4 favourite stretched clear in good style on the run-in to beat long-time leader Toon River by four lengths.

The winner had been strong in the betting ring, backed from 11/4 into 9/4. Marlay Park was easy to back on his chase debut (5/2 to 3/1) and eventually finished fifth.

"He ran a bit free at Tipperary last time," explained Hughes afterwards.

"He's very brave and very quick (at his fences). He's an out and out three-miler and likes to take his time to warm up."