Close Shave got up close home in a thrilling finish to the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Rated Novice Chase at Fairyhouse.

Barry Geraghty tracked the leaders on the 6/5 favourite but still had ground to make up jumping the final fence.

The Jessica Harrington-trained gelding picked up well on the run-in to grab front-runner Ballela Boy near the line for a head success. Inis Meain who had also raced prominently stayed on again in the closing stages and was only half a length behind the front pair at the line.

Kate Harrington said afterwards:- “Barry timed it to perfection. He’s a lovely progressive horse and is only starting to fill his frame.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)