Dee Capo opens up a route to Fairyhouse or Aintree

Dee Capo and Ashdale Bob separated themselves from the field in the Quinnbet Hurdle at Leopardstown and it was the former who finished best.

Ashdale Bob led into the straight as Dee Capo made headway into second. The latter got on terms at the last and was ridden into the lead on the run-in.

The 3/1 shot went on by a length and three-quarters from the 5/2 runner-up.

Gordon Elliott said: “He’s a nice horse and there is a lot of improvement in him from today.

“He’d had a couple of quick runs and we said we’d freshen him up and have him back for the spring.

“I’d imagine he’ll go to Fairyhouse or Aintree.

“He looks like a chaser.

“Danny gave him a good ride. Jack (Kennedy) is missing a few winners but that’s the way it goes. The horses are running well which is important.”

Dee Capo was returning from a break since finishing a close second in a Grade 3 novice hurdle at Navan in November. Cash Back the 6/5 favourite, could give no more in fourth after two out and was pulled up before the last.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee