Walsh and McManus combine with Damalisque for treble

Damalisque had plenty in hand of his rivals as he took the featured Grade B Navan Handicap Hurdle in clear-cut fashion.

The 5/1 chance travelled strongly in pursuit of Uisce Solas at the third last in this valuable two and a half miler. He flattened that hurdle but it didn't stall his momentum as he hit the front, on the bridle, at the penultimate flight.

Mark Walsh, who was bringing up a treble on the card, was motionless as his mount increased the advantage coming to the last.

The pair popped that and weren't extended in coming in seven and a half lengths clear.

Owner JP McManus also saw his colours take second and third with Mon Lino (50/1) and Campeador (28/1) respectively. Agusta Gold the 3/1 favourite, finished fourth.

McManus supplied Walsh with his three winners today - Thedevilscoachman Gars De Sceaux and Damalisque.

Trainer Eddie Harty said: “He was possibly a bit unlucky in the Brown Lad where he ran a huge race and it’s nice to repay the faith winning the race again for JP here (Kilfenora won this last year).

“I was worried about the ground as it’s very testing.

“He’s entered next week at Leopardstown (William Fry Handicap Hurdle) and he might sneak in now with a penalty for this.

“He’s won well there over two and a half and I don’t see why he wouldn’t get three (miles). We’ll see how he comes out of this before making a final decision.

“He’s a nice horse and has had his problems through the years but he’s come good now.”

Damalisque was last seen finishing second in the same class over course and distance (in the Brown Lad) in November.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee