Ardaghs Choice followed up his 100/1 Kilbeggan success with a 9/1 victory in the Randox Health Rated Novice Hurdle at Downpatrick.

For winning rider Kevin Sexton this was a quick follow-up to his win on Jazz Ranger at Tramore yesterday. It could get even better for him if the weather stays pleasant ahead of a possible Kerry National bid from Peregrine Run at Listowel next week.

Sexton has won seven races on Peregrine Run and Peter Fahey’s great old campaigner is also declared at the Kerry venue on Sunday.

Eamon ‘Dusty’ Sheehy has care of Ardaghs Choice for Stephen Barron, and the five-year-old is a progressive type as he asserted away on the run-in to triumph by eight and a half lengths from Knot On Time

"It looked a decent enough race. They went a good gallop which suited me. All he does is stay, he won over three (miles) one the last day,” said Sexton.

"In fairness to him he's just been improving and he has improved again. I hope there's another one in him.

"The quicker they were going the better for me. All he really does is stay galloping.

"He (Dusty Sheehy) just said to keep it simple like the last day."

The Stewards interviewed S. O'Callaghan, rider of Ballinlina Boy (GB), concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards found S. O'Callaghan in breach of Regulation 10.3.(b), the unnecessary hitting of a horse after its chance of winning or being placed is clearly gone. Having considered S. O'Callaghans record in this regard the Stewards suspended S. O'Callaghan for one raceday.

(MG & EM)