Toon in the hood at Gowran

Davy Russell teamed up with Toon River for the first time and punters took the hint as the gelding justified good support in the 2m4f beginners chase at Gowran Park.

The nine-year-old son of Witness Box, whose only previous success also came here in a three-mile maiden hurdle, took full advantage of his proven stamina as he stormed clear on the run-in.

The 4/1 chance (from 6’s) was headed by Abbey Lane and Operating entering the straight but was back in front again coming away from the second last.

Russell’s mount stayed on really well from this point, and went right away on the run-in to beat 4/5 favourite Abbey Lane by nearly ten lengths.

Operating could find no more and was 26 lengths further adrift at the line.

The three-member Teergay Syndicate is based near trainer Mary Louise Hallahan in Macroom in Co. Cork.

Miss Hallahan said, “The addition of the hood helped to settle him better. It helped him to get into a nice rhythm, and Davy was able to get a breather into him. In fairness Davy gave him a great ride.

“Ideally he’d prefer nicer ground and hopefully we’ll squeeze another run out of him before the end of the season. Two and a half miles and up is his trip.”

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes