Ranger Billy © Photo Healy Racing
There was late drama in the three-mile (80-95) handicap hurdle as 5/2 favourite Royal Cave who had made most of the running, came down at the last when still over a length in front leaving Derby De Thaix and Ranger Billy to fight out the finish.
The latter, a longstanding maiden, edged ahead early on the run-in under Heather Heffernan but was outstayed by the Eoin Doyle-trained Ranger Billy who got on top close home to score by a length-and-a-half.
Owned by Gerry and Christina Hughes, the Westerner gelding was recording his second victory and winning rider Donagh Meyler said: “We didn’t go overly hard and my lad jumped very well. I could save him everywhere and to be fair to him he picked up well in the straight.
“He’s not blessed with speed but stepping back up in trip helped and he’s very genuine.
“It’s nice to get his head in front and hopefully that cheers up Eoin as his club, Mooncoin, got beat in the championship at the weekend!”
Quotes from Alan Magee
