Johannisberger eases to beginners chase win

The Noel Meade trained Johannisberger ran out a very easy winner of the Weatherbys Beginners Chase under Paul Townend.

The Patricia Hunt owned gelding was finally making the breakthrough over fences on his eighth start over them.

He won a maiden hurdle at Roscommon in August of last year and he followed up in style here, hitting the front at the fourth last before going clear at the next and coming home an easy nine and a half length winner.

The 2/1 favourite Sizing Italy had to settle for second under Andrew Lynch for Jim Dreaper while Slew Charm was eight lengths back in third under Noel McParlan for Sarah Dawson at 12/1.

Noel Meade said afterwards; "Rated 116 he just sneaked in. The ground was a big factor. His wind isn’t great and he has got it done twice but he jumped super today and this track suits him."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham