Denis O'Regan showed terrific horsemanship when partnering Sargent Lightfoot to success in the beginners chase at Kilbeggan.

Adrian Murray 's charge was making his debut over fences having scored over timber at the venue back in July.

O'Regan performed acrobatics to maintain the partnership with his mount after a blunder at the fourth fence and sat off a strong pace set by Mighty Meggsie

He nursed the 15/2 shot into contention at the final fence and claimed the long-time leader on the run-in to secure a length-and-three-quarter success.

“He loves it here and that's his second win this year,” said Murray.

“He jumped well except for one fence. We were hoping he'd finish in the first three or four but thought it would be a big step for him to win first time over fences as there were a couple of nice horses in it that had form.

“Denis was brilliant and he's won twice now for him.

“I'd say he might look at a hurdle race again for him.”