Heels another for Elliott

Beef To The Heels continued Gordon Elliott's good run when running out a game winner of the Billecart-Salmon Handicap Hurdle at Down Royal.

Jane Mangan produced her mount to challenge at the second last in the two-mile contest and he soon hit the front. Thomas Edison looked a big threat as he loomed up behind the leaders but he failed to pick up at the last after an untidy leap.

Beef To The Heels stayed on strongly in the closing stages to post a comprehensive four-length winning margin.

Thomas Edison just edged out Slew Charm for the runner-up spot.

The race complexion changed five from home with well-backed favourite Gold Ability (11/2 in morning sent off 3/1 favourite) crashing out.

The winner had finished second at Perth on his last start and was sent off an 8/1 shot.

Elliott was full of praise for the winning rider:- "She gave him some ride. It was a lovely pot so we are delighted.

"I think he'll be better on better ground and we might look at the Cheltenham November meeting for him."

(Additional reporting by Michael Graham)