Shaneshill gets off mark over fences in style

Shaneshill opened his account over fences with the minimum of fuss in the Killinan Beginners Chase at Thurles.

The 1/4 shot put in a tidy round of jumping, just getting close to the third last on both circuits.

Ruby Walsh let the six-year-old hit the front going to the penultimate fence and he was well in control before the last.

A fine leap there sealed matters and the Willie Mullins-trained gelding didn't have to come off the bridle to record a three-and-three-quarter length victory over Walk To Freedom

The former Grade One bumper winner had played second fiddle to stable-mate Douvan in the Supreme Novices' at Cheltenham last season but was a Grade 2 winner over hurdles in his novice season.

"I was happy with what I saw and I don't think he made any mistakes. I was very happy the way he jumped the last three and he had to kick on over the last two,” said Mullins.

"I have no plans yet but he's in all the good ones (over Christmas) but I'd like to keep himself and Douvan apart.

"He could step up in trip but I'll see what I have at Christmas. I hope to have the same problem in three weeks time!"

The winner remains 8/1 favourite for the JLT Novice's Chase at Cheltenham with Paddy Power.

The fourth horse home Goulane Chosen was disqualified after his rider Brian Hayes weighed in 1.1lbs under-weight.

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)