Bleu Berry off the mark over fences

High-class hurdler Bleu Berry (4/6 fav) got off the mark over fences in the John F. McGuire Beginners Chase.

The 2018 Coral Cup winner, third on chase debut at the Galway Festival, was always close to the pace and jumped to the front five out under Paul Townend.

The 10-year-old, who had been out of action for a couple of years before making his return to racing in the spring, kept going well in the straight to see off the challenge of Buddy Rich by three lengths.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins said: "Going back in trip wasn't any harm to him and he jumped well. We'll try and find something between two miles and 2m4f now.

"I don't think he is trip-dependant but he jumps well enough to go at the minimum trip.

"We're in no rush and will look for another race next month."

Quotes from Thomas Weekes