Russell & Byrnes on Top again

After tying the knot on Monday, Davy Russell returned to action for just one ride at Bellewstown this evening, and he made the journey to the Co Meath venue a worthwhile one, as he scored aboard Top Of The Town in the Hibernia Steel Products Handicap Hurdle.

The final leg of that famous Charles Byrnes Roscommon treble earlier in the month, Top Of The Town was expected to follow-up this evening, as he went off the 7/4 favourite (briefly available at 5/2 last night).

Settled in mid-division, the eight-year-old son of Craigsteel took closer order after four out, and was pushed along in fourth approaching the next.

He got to the front at the second last, and he kept on well under pressure on the run-in, going on to score comfortably by four and a quarter lengths. Garri Rua ran on to take second under Danny Mullins for Garrett Power at 7/1 (from 9's), while Rendezvous Peak (6/1) was a head back in third under Keith Donoghue for Gordon Elliott.

Byrnes said afterwards: "He did it well and jumped very well. I'd say the nicer ground helped him and hopefully he can progress from here.

Regarding the gambled treble he added: "I'd say it's been slightly exaggerated but paper never refuses ink. The treble paid over 4000/1 so you didn't need to have an awful lot on."

Additional reporting by Gary Carson