Westmeath off the mark over fences Westmeath made every yard to make a winning debut over fences in the beginners chase at Gowran Park. Davy Russell soon put the disappointment of Rubi Light's unfortunate tumble in the feature behind him to guide the Gigginstown runner to victory. Paul Nolan's charge was sent off 4/5 favourite and always looked in control in the 2m2f contest. Byerley Bear tried to throw down a challenge in the straight but the front-runner was always just pulling out enough on the run-in to see off that rival by a length-and-a-half. The winner was tried in Grade 1 company over hurdles last season and has always been well regarded by his trainer. "He did it well and hopefully can go to a higher level over fences now," said Nolan. "He should improve for better ground as well. "He was a bit disappointing over hurdles and didn't live up to out expectations." Gary Carson
