Blackmore seals Gowran brace on Monalee

Monalee put himself firmly in the picture for Cheltenham with a lovely display of jumping in the Grade Two Red Mills Chase at Gowran Park.

The eight-year-old Milan gelding bounded along at the head of affairs in this two and a half mile test over 14 fences.

He appeared to have a race on his hands as his three rivals jostled for position just behind him approaching three out, though.

However, Killutagh Vic cracked and dropped to last at that fence as a good leap from Monalee soon had Anibale Fly and Edwulf off the bridle in second and third respectively.

Another good jump at the penultimate fence had the even-money favourite in charge but Anibale Fly (13/2) kept on along the run-in to get to within two lengths at the finish.

Monalee gave jockey Rachael Blackmore a double on the card as she also took the opener on Star Max

Henry de Bromhead said: "He jumped brilliant and Rachael was super on him.

“I'm delighted to win it, he's giving away 7lb to a couple of them there. It's great to win this race and I'm delighted with him.

“It was great to get a run into him on that ground today. Obviously we'll head for Cheltenham and we'll see.

“He's in the Ryanair and the Gold Cup and we'll work it all out between now and then.

“I wouldn't be leaning any way to be honest. I don't know yet and I'd say the ground will be quite telling.

“We'll see nearer the time and make sure he comes out of this okay. We'll discuss it with the Maloneys (owners) and hopefully we'll make the right decision.”

Paddy Power shortened Monalee for the Ryanair Chase from 15/2 to 11/2 (non runner no bet).

Additional reporting by Gary Carson