Diggin Deep © Photo Healy Racing
The veteran Diggin Deep (14/1) made the most of his light weight to land the Club Mixers Handicap Chase under 7lb claimer Cian Cullinan.
The latter had some tack difficulties early in the contest and did well to get his saddle back into position after it had shifted markedly to one side. His mount, who led after about a mile, made the rest and saw out the trip really well. Mister Bells was the main challenger in the home straight but was held by three and quarter lengths with Ask Cory another length and a quarter back in third.
The Royal Anthem gelding won over hurdles and fences last year and this was his sixth career victory.
Winning trainer Paul Fahey said: "We said we would come up and if the ground wasn't suitable, we were going to bring him back home. I walked the track and I was happy with the ground. He just wants it as quick as you can get it.
"The race went all against plan because the young lad lost his iron and when he went to go get his Iron back, the horse grabbed the bit. We were absolutely convinced he would never get home from where he took off. He said he travelled the whole way with him and stayed on to the line.
"He had to go to plan B and be cool and he didn't panic. He jumped one fence there without an iron I think so he did well to get it all together in the end. He comes in and rides out for me.
"He's an old horse, he's 12 now so it is great. We are totally dependent on a few tracks and the ground for him. If the ground is right, he'll go. We haven't ruled out a trip across the water with him, we might go across to Perth with him for a bit of fun."
Quotes from Michael Graham
