Don Chalant scores with nonchalant ease

Don Chalant made most of the running to land the Tom Quinlan Electrical Maiden Hurdle in the hands of Michael O’Sullivan.

The 9/1 chance was tackled by market leader Butcher Hollow turning for home and the pair raced towards the last locked together but a blunder there by the favourite sealed his fate as the winner stretched clear to beat The Lovely Man by seven lengths.

Runner-up in two bumpers, the winner had also been second on his most recent hurdles start at Naas.

Winning trainer Pat Foley said: “He's been very consistent in fairness to him.”

“A lot of it is down to the owners, the O'Dowds. He's had his problems from back in Punchestown two years ago and they've given him all the time and patience. I'm absolutely delighted for them.

“He'll be a lovely horse going forward.

“We were debating whether to come here or go to Cork on Monday but we just thought two-and-a-half there would be far enough for him as he can be a little bit keen.

“It was the right call to make, we were happier to come here and take a chance.

“He might be put away now. The original plan was to go chasing with him next season so we didn't mind winning a maiden this time of year with him.

“I'll talk to the boys now and see but as soon as the ground dries he'll be out.”

Quotes from Gary Carson