Trappe gets off mark over fences in style

Captain Von Trappe got off the mark over fences with the minimum of fuss in the WB Gavin and Co Beginners Chase at Galway.

Bryan Cooper let the Gigginstown gelding bowl along in front and he pulled clear after the last to run out an impressive winner. The Winkler kept on to claim the runner-up spot but could only get within 13-lengths of the eased down 8/13 favourite.

The Gordon Elliott-trained Captain Von Trappe had been third on his chase debut to Don Vincenzo at Punchestown 12 days ago.

Cooper said afterwards:- "He was so well schooled you could be full of confidence and he jumped great apart from the third and fourth last. He was a bit clumsy at those but was getting lonely out in front.

"I don't know if he'd be mad about real heavy ground though."

On Whistle Dixie who was beaten at a short price in the opener, he added "I was disappointed as you'd like to see her quicken away and win but it was her first run back. It's a long year and maybe the experience will stand to her."

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)