Russian Diamond makes all to open account over fences

Russian Diamond put some frustrating runs over fences behind him with an authoritative victory in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase at Fairyhouse.

Brian Hayes sent the 8/1 chance to the front from flagfall and he took control in the straight, just ridden out on the run-in to beat Port Stanley by five and a half lengths.

There was a 13 lengths gap back to Western Run in third.

Winning trainer Emmet Mullins said, “It was a no nonsense ride by Brian and its good to get off the mark. He’s been unlucky over fences so far with a few silly falls and was unseated last weekend through no fault of his own.

“It’s been a while coming but delighted to get him off the mark over fences.

“That’s lively enough ground out there today. We might stay going depending on the ground for a while longer but I’m sure he’ll be targeted at Galway for some race next summer.”

The Annette Mee-owned Russian Diamond was adding to previous wins in a bumper and maiden hurdle.