Bruff in the JP McManus colours proved much too good for his rivals in the two mile six handicap chase at Ballinrobe.

Jockey Jody McGarvey could afford a peek across at his rivals before two out as he was going so well. He rode the winner clear from the last for an 11-length decision for trainer Mouse Morris.

Frank Berry, racing manager for JP McManus, said: “It’s great to win a race with him. He’d been promising and he’s consistent.”

The winner was returned at 4/1, having been 5/1 in the morning. Runner-up Western Star was the 11/4 market leader and third-placed Bishop’s Lane was 6/1.

There was a plunge on Pauline Gavin’s Optime from 33/1 in the morning to an opening show at the track of 25/1 down to an SP of 12/1, but the money was left in the bookmakers’ satchels as this one finished fifth.

Bruff is a five-year-old and was winning for the first time on his 14th outing.

(On course reporting by Eamonn Murphy)