"He's had more problems than the Greek economy although most of them are psychological and is a bit of a thief. He is what he is," acknowledged Niall Moran after his charge Whisky Galore crossed the line in front for the first time in his sixty four outings.

Unfortunately Edric Browne (90), Whisky Galore's owner, wasn't present to see the win in the IT Sligo Student Day Novice Handicap Chase.

"This will give him a lift, he's not here as he got a chest infection last week," explained the locally-based Moran.

A nine-year-old at this stage, the victorious Kyllachy gelding got a handicap hurdle in the steward's room at this venue on August 6th.

Whisky Galore has performed to a decent level plenty of times at Cleveragh at this stage, and this was no less than his nineteenth spin around the picturesque course.

"This is his home track and he likes the place. He jumped from fence to fence, and will probably go to Galway next," added Moran.

Patrick Mangan rode Whisky Galore and he was always to the fore before attaining a four length victory over Dandridge

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Off The Mark trained by C.Roche, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

(AM & EM)