After beginning over fences in a novice event at Tramore on New Year’s Day Ballea Fox belied his inexperience to win the Follow Fairyhouse On Social Media Handicap Chase.

Barry John Foley won two handicap hurdles previously on the Multiplex gelding, and he took the reins again on this occasion for trainer Seamus Spillane.

Back from his usual American stint Foley got Ballea Fox home by a length and three parts from fellow County Cork contender Moscowsowhat

Favourite Hoke Colburn ended up eight and a half lengths back in third.

“He jumped well. We were a little bit worried about his jumping coming here but he sailed around there no bother,” said Spillane.

“Over hurdles you'd say he was getting sick of running in that kind of ground but he was grand there today and the change of scenery worked.

“We'll pick out something similar again for him.”

Adam Short was stood down after a fall from Dubai Devils three out, a fence that also claimed Stoughan Cross and Mister Eddman

(GC & EM)