Michael Graham
Tulsa Jack pips Naughty Molly
Tulsa Jack, near side, gets up in Kilbeggan
© Photo Healy Racing
Noel Meade's Tulsa Jack nailed Naughty Molly right on the line at the end of three miles and one furlong in the Tullamore Handicap Chase at Kilbeggan.
Naughty Molly dictated the pace throughout but made a blunder at the second last which gave the lead to Galboystown Lady
However, Naughty Molly showed her resolution as she battled back on the inside to lead on the approach to the last. At this stage Tulsa Jack was seen moving into a threatening position in third.
Tulsa Jack, with Ger Fox in the plate, delivered his challenge to Naughty Molly on the run-in and only ever led where it counted, on the line.
He took the prize by a short head at 7/1 from 12/1 in the morning. Naughty Molly in second was an 11/2 shot. Abarta at 6/1 came in third.
Handler Noel Meade said: "I wasn't sure if he had won but Dessie (Scahill) was behind me and he said you're not beaten anyway.
"He looked to have a chance when he fell in Killarney and I actually fancied him tonight, I thought he had a good chance.
"The three mile one furlong was a big help and the smaller fences probably helped as well."
Additional reporting by Gary Carson