Cross continues Gibney's purple patch

Tom Gibney registered his fourth winner of the month, as Stoughan Cross sprang a 40/1 surprise in the Happy Christmas And New Year To All Our Members Handicap Chase.

Successful with Regina Dracones at Fairyhouse last weekend and Hannon at Dundalk on Wednesday, the Irish Grand National winning trainer has his horses in superb form at present.

Stoughan Cross, who won over flights at Punchestown in February, had disappointed on his last two starts, with his most recent effort coming in March.

Never far off the pace under Darragh O'Keeffe, the eleven-year-old gelding led from three out and was ridden clear before the last. Spancil Hill (11/1) and Kevin Brouder threw down a late challenge on the run-in, but the winner battled on gamely to prevail by a neck.

The front pair went twenty lengths clear of Never Off Duty (13/2 to 4s) in third, while Duckphil (33/1) was another two-and-a-quarter lengths back in fourth. I'll Be That Lady was returned the 10/3 favourite and she disappointingly pulled up before the last.

"It's fantastic to get a win with him, especially as his owner Jim Nevin is a local man. Hopefully that will put a smile on his face," said Gibney.

"He likes Navan and has run well around here a few times.

"He seems to get his turn once a season, every season. Hopefully that's not it for this season because it's only his first run back, he's never won first time out but the horses are just in great form at the moment."

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Stewards fined Ronan M.P. McNally, trainer, E65 for failing to fit the declared headgear to See Double You prior to entering the parade ring.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined I'll Be That Lady, trained by Brian M. McMahon, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson