Vic makes the long journey worthwhile

The Noel Kelly trained, Derek Fox ridden Charlie's Vic got the better of Avondhu Lady to win the Grade 3 ITBA Fillies Scheme EBF Dawn Run Mares Novice Chase. Dazzling Susie adopted her usual front running tactics and was well clear of the field for much of the contest.

Rounding the turn for home she was passed and quickly beaten and on the run to the last Avondhu Lady led under Mark Enright with the eventual winner coming with her challenge on the inside.

Charlie’s Vic (5/1) was driven to the front on the run-in and she stayed on best to get the better of the David Fenton trained 14/1 shot Avondhu Lady by a neck.

The 11/4 favourite, Dangan Daylight finished a further two and a half lengths back in third for Colm Murphy and Robbie Power.

Noel Kelly, who trains in Co Derry, said afterwards: "The plan was to run in this race after she won her beginners chase. She jumped well and had no problem stepping up to three miles. She probably needs three miles even though she is only a six year old.

"Fairyhouse is only two weeks away and that might be a bit sharp for her. It took five hours to get down here and she was fed at 4am this morning."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes