Gigginstown/Elliott 1 2 in Ballybrit Grade 3

There were massive gaps between the runners from some way out in the Grade 3 Ballybrit Novice Chase at Galway. It was the Gigginstown House Stud and Gordon Elliott pair Tocororo (2/1 favourite, Jack Kennedy up) and Tiger Roll that dominated, with the former prevailing.

Bryan Cooper, on his first ride since sustaining injuries here at the festival, when also aboard Tiger Roll, had to yield by sixteen lengths to Tocororo (not always convincing with her jumping) on this occasion.

They left Baily Cloud nine and a half lengths behind in third.

Elliott was also successful over at Perth with the Richard Johnson-partnered pair, Mountain King and Blake Dean.

Cooper said afterwards: "People made a big deal out of it (the injury) more than anything else but we're back.

"I would have picked the winner but the lightest I did in the last year was 10st 1lbs and it's a long winter and we have plenty to look forward to."

Meanwhile Kennedy, aboard Tocororo at nine stone twelve, commented: "She was a bit keen early on and was a small bit novicey but it was only her third run over fences. I was fairly confident coming into the dip and it was just a case of getting over the last two fences which can be a bit tricky. I was steading her going down to the last two fences and she galloped all the way to the line."

D.N. Russell, rider of Hurricane Ben trained by James G.Sheehan, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount stopped quickly.

(TW & EM)