Zigger Zagger falls at the last as Ben Dalton (black, white sleeves) heads for victory© Photo Healy Racing
Irish Grand National winning jockey was back in the headlines at Kilbeggan, nearly two and a half years since that highlight aboard Liberty Counsel at Fairyhouse, with a 2,277/1 double, completed by 66/1 shot (clipped in from 100/1 'on the show') By The Banks in Midlands Breeders Supporting Kilbeggan Beginners Chase.
Earlier on the mark aboard the 33/1 victor of race three, Star Power Dalton was a little more forward here on Denis Cullen's By The Banks, and he shrugged aside slight mistakes three out and at the next.
The point-to-point and handicap hurdle scorer stayed on to challenge at the last, and he led on the run-in before holding Georges Conn by a neck.
Favourite Steps To Freedom was well held when he was hampered and got rid of Paddy Kennedy at the last. Zigger Zagger had no more to give when also claimed by the final obstacle.
"He looked like he was going to win in Tramore earlier this year. He fell at the second last then, and it seemed to give him an awful fright," explained Cullen.
"Then with fast ground over the summer things didn't go his way. I threw him out in the field for a fortnight and he's come back freshened up well.
"He's from a good family - a half-brother to Tell Us More.
"He's a brilliant horse to jump and Ben gave him a grand ride. He followed instructions which is what you want."
Tim Conroy, By The Banks' owner/breeder, has had runners at Kilbeggan for 30 years and this was his first winner.
The Stewards requested a report from Denis W. Cullen, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of By The Banks, placed first, as compared with its recent form.
The trainer reported that despite its win in Wexford this horse appreciates waiting tactics, he ran well before falling in his first beginners chase in Tramore but didn't get home last time in Tipperary and today he seemed to benefit from being ridden less prominently.
Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the contents of the report.
The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Steps To Freedom, trained by Mrs John Harrington, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be blowing hard post race.
(AM & EM)
