Colonel Braxton got his chasing career off to an unfortunate start when brought down early on in the two and a quarter mile beginners chase at Fairyhouse, writes Alan Magee.
Dessie Hughes` charge, one of the top novice hurdlers last season was sent off the 4/6 favourite (from 1/2) in this 17 runner race, but Kieran Kelly had no chance of keeping the partnership intact when Jackrafter fell in front of him at the third fence.
Colonel Braxton was fine after the tumble, and may run next in a two miles novice at Punchestown on December 19.
Victory went to 5/1 second favourite Royal Jake, although the seven-year-old gelding needed a strong drive from championship leader Paul Carberry to just come out best in a three-way photo finish.
Hughes had better luck elsewhere on the card when completing a double with Columba and I`vehadit.
Alan Magee
