Downthecellar and Paul Townend jump past Alice Avril © Photo Healy Racing
The Three Ireland Rated Novice Chase saw Downthecellar (7/2) win for the third time in a row at Tramore and complete a four-timer for the summer after getting off the mark at Limerick in May.
The 8/11 favourite Alice Avril jumped really well out in front but was collared by the winner at the second last. The Arcadio gelding stayed on well for Paul Townend to beat She Tops The Lot (7/2) by half a length.
The Christine Plumbly-owned winner had beaten the latter in a handicap at this venue last month and managed to confirm the form on 21lbs worse terms, including claims.
Winning trainer Edward O’Grady said: "It probably wasn't a clever race to run him in, strictly speaking.
"I just thought he jumps so well that he might put the favourite under pressure with her being just a four-year-old, and that's what happened. She wasn't even placed in the end.
"I think his experience rather than his ability showed today. He loves this track and Paul rides him so well around here.
"We will enjoy today but we might go back over hurdles with him."
Quotes from Donal Murphy
