The Chapel Field won twice over timber in November last year and opened his account over fences 12 months later when taking the opening beginners chase at Thurles this afternoon.

Trevor Ryan settled his mount mid-division early on before taking closer order up the back straight in the two-mile-two contest.

Willie Austin 's charge jumped into the lead at the third last and despite being slightly untidy at the next looked in control running down to the last.

The Beneficial gelding popped the final fence and kept on well on the run-in to record a two-length success over Midland Millie

The Chapel Field was sent to post a 7/1 shot having been third in handicap company on his most recent start at Ballinrobe last month.

Austin said afterwards:- "He jumped well today.

"He was entitled to win on his rating but we thought he was a bit hard done by to get 105 in a handicap. This was ideal for him today and we're delighted with him.

"He'll stay handicapping and hopefully he'll win more of them - they're not easy won!"

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)