The Oliver McKiernan trained Spot The Boss ran out the thoroughly game winner of the 3m4f Grade C Michael Fitzpatrick Memorial Grand National Trial Handicap Steeplechase at Punchestown today, scoring under Robbie Colgan.

The grey gelding led from halfway and stayed on well in the testing conditions, responding to all Colgan's urgings to shake off the challenge of Murchu from two out. At the line, Spot The Boss held a 20 lengths advantage.

Afterwards McKiernan said “Spot The Boss put in a great round of jumping today – that was his problem the last day. The trip, the weight and the ground were all right for him today but his jumping was immaculate which made all the difference. He wants every inch of that trip but these races are thin on the ground.

“The Eider Chase at Newcastle (over four miles) could be a possibility if he gets into it. I've always viewed him as a long distance chaser on testing ground.”

Quotes from Alan Magee