Elegant ride by Walsh on Statesman Elegant Statesman opened his account over fences when pouncing late under Mark Walsh in the Festival Earlybird Deals On punchestown.com Handicap Chase. The J P McManus-owned gelding previously won a bumper and maiden hurdle but was ending a losing run stretching back 17 months. Old Supporter set a strong pace in this 2m4f event but the 15/8 favourite’s advantage was reeled in approaching the straight. Walsh waited as late as possible before cajoling Elegant Statesman (5/2) past the front-runner in the closing stages. Winning trainer Henry de Bromhead said, “He's been disappointing the last couple of runs so it's nice to see him back on track. “Mark gave him a super ride and judged it really well. He jumped great. I'm delighted with that and we'll look for something similar. “I'll speak to Frank (Berry) and see what he wants to do. It's just great to have the horse back.” (GC & AM)
