Run For Oscar and Philip Byrnes© Photo Healy Racing
Class came to the fore in the Joe Cooney Memorial Hurdle at Kilbeggan as Run For Oscar put in a silk smooth performance to deliver at odds of 2/5 in the hands of Philip Byrnes.
Held up at the back of the small field but very much in touch with the leaders, Run For Oscar made headway to lead four out, and he was travelling smoothly and went clear approaching the last.
For the winning rider's father Charles, the Top Of The Hill Syndicate-owned nine-year-old further extended his advantage on the run-in to comfortably gain the day by six and a half lengths from Macgiloney
"He hadn't won since the English Cesarewitch (in 2022) even though he had run some good races," said Byrnes senior.
"It was a good opportunity for him and the three miles was a big plus.
"He isn't the quickest of jumpers and missed one or two but it was his race.
"We don't have a plan but we'll go for a similar race if it comes up, although I don't think he'll go back to France.
"I'm delighted to get the win as he has been a brilliant horse.
Following a request from broadcasters, the Raceday Stewards granted permission for a one minute delay to this race
P. Townend, rider of Mr Adjudicator (GB), trained by W.P. Mullins, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount made a noise.
(TW & EM)
