McGivern seen to good effect aboard Ballykeel

Ballykeel has connections dreaming of some bigger targets after taking the 3m1f Quinlan Financial Supporting CCR Raceday Rated Novice Chase at Fairyhouse.

The Presenting gelding made smooth headway to lead early in the straight under Corey McGivern but the 100/30 shot needed to be driven out on the run-in to score by two-and-three-quarter lengths. Clonmeen defied odds of 80/1 when keeping on well to take the runner-up spot with the pair finishing 24 lengths clear of Ballycastle Girl in third.

The well-backed Carrig Sam was tracking the leaders when falling three out.

Elliott said, “He's a good little rider and he's good value for his 7lb.

“The horse likes that ground, he jumped and travelled. If he got into the Kim Muir we'd take our chance. He's a straight-forward horse and would suit that type of race.

“He's been knocking on the door. He'll be entered in the Irish National as well and we'll see what happens.”

Quotes by Gary Carson