Rathvinden (closest) and Ballela Boy clear a fence© Photo Healy Racing
The Willie Mullins trained Rathvinden recorded his first win since December 2013, as he took the Stena Line Horizon Beginners Chase under Ruby Walsh, his only ride on the card.
Third to stable mate Faugheen in the 2014 running of the Neptune Investments Novices Hurdle, the son of Heron Island was then off the track for over two and a half years, returning to action at Navan last December.
A good second to Modem at Ballinrobe in May, he was expected to go one place better today, as he stepped up in trip to three mile one.
Sent off the 6/4 favourite he raced prominently behind the leaders, and hit the front after the third last.
He went a few lengths clear before two out, and increased his advantage on the run-in, coming home twelve lengths to the good. Fly Rory Fly (10/1) finished second under Sean Flanagan for Noel Meade, while Master Appeal (4/1) was half a length back in third for Paul Townend and John Kiely.
Ruby Walsh said afterwards: "Obviously he has had plenty of problems, but he had a nice run at Ballinrobe and he improved from it today. He jumped well all the way. We'll see how he is tomorrow and make a plan from there."
STEWARDS REPORTS
J.J.Slevin, rider of Go It Alone trained by Colin Bowe, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount pulled up lame.
R. Loughran, rider of Grey Mountain Mist trained by E.Sheehy, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung under pressure.
P.D. Kennedy, rider of Kalinite trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount made a bad mistake, never travelled thereafter and pulled up.
The Turf Club Veterinary Officer reported to the Stewards that Go It Alone trained by Colin Bowe was lame on the left fore post race.
