Sa Majeste and Mark Walsh © Photo Healy Racing
Sa Majeste had to work harder than those that took a short price would have anticipated before narrowly winning the concluding Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase at Tipperary.
The Willie Mullins trained gelding was sent off 11/10f to strike on what was just his second career start over fences.
However, supporters must have been worried after jumping three out, with jockey Mark Walsh getting lower in the saddle as Shannon Royale and Nas Na Riogh went on a few lengths up ahead.
The latter weakened quickly before the next, leading Sa Majeste to go in pursuit of Shannon Royale. Despite drawing alongside approaching the penultimate fence, a good jump from the leader left Sa Majeste with work to do.
After jumping the last, the pair settled down to battle it out to the line, with Shannon Royale pulling out plenty for Sam Ewing before Sa Majeste edged ahead right at the finish to win by a short head.
Frank Berry, Racing Manager to owner J.P. McManus reported: "Mark said he hurdled a few of them but he toughed it out well. He is a chasing type so hopefully will get better at it and we're just glad to get his head in front for now."
Jack Kennedy, who took a heavy fall from Cleatus Poolaw on the first circuit was reported to be sore but OK after the race.
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes.
