Arrycan continued the fine recent form of freelance jockey Sean Flanagan when landing the Kilmuray's Homevalue Hardware Mullingar Handicap Chase at Kilbeggan.

It was a sixth winner of the new season for Flanagan, who has ridden for a number of different trainers since splitting with Noel Meade. On this occasion, the winner was sent out by Laois based Liam Cusack.

Getting a dream run through on the inner approaching the second last fence, Flanagan knew that with the final obstacle omitted, he had no more jumping to do.

Quickly pushed clear of the weakening Jack Hackett on the turn into the straight. Arrycan skipped clear of his field and had enough in reserve to hold the late burst of runner-up Na Caith Tobac

“He's been very consistent. It was a drop back in trip but I just felt when I saw the entries, it was a good pot, and there were only 11 in it so we had to go for it,” said Cusack.

“Sean gave him a lovely ride, got him into a nice rhythm, and I said to him don't be waiting for them as he stays further.

“I know he was in front a long way, and he said it coming in. Maybe we could have done with the last fence being there.

“I'm delighted for the lads, some of them were in Bog War with me and for some of them it's their first horse. Bog War won seven for them and they are just a good bunch of lads.

“They really enjoy it and Kilbeggan would be local to us as well so it's great.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson