Walsh gets a bit of compo off Sun

Henry de Bromhead sent out the first and fourth in the featured Belvedere House, Gardens & Park Handicap Chase with Riviera Sun coming out on top in the penultimate event at Kilbeggan.

Mark Walsh got a horrible fall off this fellow in Leopardstown on St Stephen's Day but he got a bit of compensation off the Milan gelding here when after an exciting conclusion he landed the spoils by a length from Smadynium

It got tight enough for space for some on the run-in and Riviera Sun's stable companion Double Island took fourth. Meanwhile for successful owner J P McManus it was a 1-3 as his Rocky On Fruity was the bronze medalist on this occasion.

"It took a while but he got there in the end. He has promised on a few occasions," said the McManus racing manager Frank Berry.

"He jumped well and the little ease helped. We'll keep tipping away and try and find another one like that, maybe back here.

"He was a bit careful at a few. He had a hard fall at Leopardstown and it's good to see him back."

The Stewards enquired into an incident after the final fence involving Turn Over Sivola (FR), ridden by D.F.O'Reagan, placed fourth, Double Island, ridden by A.E. Lynch, placed third and the winner Riviera Sun, ridden by Mark Walsh. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that any interference was accidental. They did however advise A.E.Lynch of the need to be more accurate in giving evidence in future.

(GC & EM)