Prince Rudi took advantage of a lenient mark over fences, compared to a hurdle rating 22lb higher, when opening his chase account at the tender age of twelve in the Kilfeacle Stud ‘Portrait Gallery’ Handicap Chase.

The veteran gelding had previously notched up three career wins over hurdles but finally put the record straight over fences despite continually jumping out to the right.

The tendency to jump right was greatly exaggerated after striking the front three out but the 4/1 chance kept on really well for Ian McCarthy in the straight to beat Ard Agus Fada by 14 lengths. Fitzgutentyte was a further seven lengths back in third.

Winning trainer Stephen Nolan said, “He’s been a great old servant and is worth his weight in gold. He hasn’t run over fences since the Fairyhouse Easter meeting last year. He had joint trouble and he was so good over hurdles that we kept him at it.

“He dropped 6lb over fences over the winter and deserved the win today. He’s a very clear winded horse.”

(TW & AM)