The Paul Nolan-trained Triplets Joy had to dig deep to grind out victory in the 2m7f handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse. Mallards In Flight looked in a commanding position as she travelled well in the lead entering the straight.

Triplets Joy stuck to her task well for Kevin Sexton, however, and stayed on to challenge at the final flight.

The 7/2 favourite stuck her neck out on the run-in, getting up in the closing stages for a length-and-a-half success.

The winner had run a fine race to finish third at Thurles earlier in the month on her return to action.

“She was closing all the way to the line at Thurles behind Mrs Mac Veale, and she won yesterday so the form was good,” said Nolan.

“She certainly handles the ground, and you can’t beat toughness! I’d like to stick to mares races, and she jumps a fence well. She’s owned by a neighbour of mine Dom Stafford.”

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)