Balnaslow justifies odds-on favouritism

Balnaslow justified odds-on favouritism as he took the Tramore Racecourse Members Chase under Paul Townend for Willie Mullins.

Sent off an 8/13 chance, the seven-year-old son of Presenting made virtually all, battling gamely away from the last to see off the challenge of Harpsy Cord (11/4) by half a length, while Ballyfinboy ran a fine race, just two and three parts of a length back in third.

The winner was taking a step down in class, having finished fourth in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham on his last start, while before that he was fourth in the Thyestes at Gowran.

Patrick Mullins said afterwards: "It is great to win with him. We feel there is a handicap in him, and it is great for him to get his head in front as it will give him a bit of confidence.

"He is probably more suited to running in hanidcaps, and as the ground improves he will improve.

"He is better than what he showed there, and he could go for the 2m 5f novice handicap at Punchestown now."