Vincent opens chase account

Sir Vincent showed no ill-effects of a fall at Listowel last time when produced with a well-timed challenge by Ruby Walsh to take the Boyle Beginners Chase.

The Willie Mullins-trained gelding headed the front-running Thomond (5/1) just before the final fence, and was driven out to stay on well on the run-in.

The 7/2 chance had four lengths to spare at the line, with Hunting Party (2/1) another four and three quarter lengths back in third. Usuel Smurfer spoiled his chance with a bad blunder five out, and the uneasy 15/8 favourite eventually finished fourth.

Ruby Walsh said, “He loved that ground and jumped well. His only blip was at Listowel the last day when he was probably going the wrong way around. He seems to be progressing.”

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes