Townend's four-timer at his local track

Two Noel Meade runners dominated the finish of Cork’s two mile handicap chase and it was Protaras who got up and gave jockey Paul Townend a four-timer.

“I had a four-timer in Punchestown two years ago. While it’s nice to do it anywhere, it’s great to do it at my local track. It’s about time I had a bit of luck here. My father and family are here which makes it extra special.

“He (Protaras) spent a bit of time in the air over the last two and just got there. I rode my first winner over jumps for Noel.”

It looked like Perfect Smile and Robbie Colgan on the inside had got first run as they forged their way into the lead after jumping four out. They still held the lead coming to the last, but Townend and Protaras were gaining albeit racing track-width apart.

Protaras stayed on strongly down the outside to land the spoils by a neck at 11/2. Perfect Smile, the runner-up, was returned at 16/1. Again there was a significant gap back to the third – The Amarillo Kid at 8/1 beaten just over nine and a half lengths. A Fine Young Man the 7/2 favourite, finished tailed-off last of the seven finishers.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes