Eight And Bob (far side) winning at Wexford© Photo Healy Racing
Eight And Bob gained reward for a series of consistent efforts when taking the three-mile Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse.
The six-year-old gelding is owned by the Act D Wagg Syndicate, who enjoyed such great success with Clondaw Warrior, and had finished in the first two on his previous five starts including a win at Wexford.
Liam Gilligan gave the 5/1 chance a fine ride, producing him to challenge at the second last and staying on well on the run-in to deny the persistent Cher Why Not by a length.
The 11/4 favourite Global Racing was a further two and a quarter lengths back in third, with Fourina completing the places in fourth.
Willie Mullins was completing a first and last race double having earlier landed the beginners chase with the Paul Townend-ridden Real Steel
Mullins said, "“I'm delighted to give Liam Gilligan a winner. He rides out for me at home and he gave it a great ride. We'll probably stick at that having gone out in trip with him now. That's probably more like it, two-six or three miles.
"The rain today is welcome. I don't know how much more is forecast but it's getting more like winter weather here."
(GC & AM)
