Yeats Star strikes on first try over fences

Just six lined-up for the Thorn Plant Hire Beginners Chase, with half of the declared field of 12 taken out due to the change in going.

On what was his first start over fences, the Gordon Elliott-trained Yeats Star eventually came out on top, justifying 6/5 favouritism in the colours of owner/breeder Bertie Mannion.

With Sam Ewing replacing Jack Kennedy, the market leader raced mainly in second, taking closer order from three out.

While not travelling as well as the leader before the next, he ultimately found more for pressure and hit the front on the approach to the last, keeping on well from there to score by three and a half lengths.

After attempting to make all, Sportinthepark (6/1) had to settle for second under Donagh Meyler, while Good Time Jonny was a further eight and a half lengths away in third.

"He was a really progressive and improving type over hurdles. In fairness he was rated 135 so it was natural progression to send him over fences," stable representative Lisa O'Neill commented.

"He has won on soft ground but around here takes a bit of jumping and he isn't the biggest, but has loads of heart.

"Sam gave him a beautiful ride and got him into a lovely rhythm as he was a bit novicey early on. He did it well."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes