Ballycasey takes Normans Grove

Ballycasey recorded his third Grade 2 victory this season and brought his career winning tally to ten when landing the Normans Grove Chase at Fairyhouse.

The grey son of Presenting, a Grade 1 winner over fences as a novice, has appreciated a step back in distance this term and made most in this 2m1f event.

Ruby Walsh ’s mount asserted between the final two fences but the 15/8 chance needed to be driven right out on the run-in to hold off 6/5 favourite Ball D’Arc by half a length.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins said, “He’s found his mojo again. We were trying to make a stayer out of him but he obviously enjoys going a shorter trip and using his jumping. He’s got his confidence back.

“I wish the Topham was another fortnight or three weeks away. It was either there or here and we chose here. Hopefully he will run in Punchestown and he will probably have to go for the Grade 1 (Boylesports Champion Chase).

“He was third in the Galway Plate last year, and that’s a possible target again this year. He might not be as well in this year as last year!”