Down Royal’s opening hunters chase was won by 20/1 outsider Carsonstown Boy who belied his odds by edging out Not Before Eight (10/1) by a nose after a thrilling battle.
It was four-and-a-half lengths back to 15/8 favourite Viking Splash in third (backed from 11/4 in the morning). Nedzer’s Return was carried out at the third last when still in contention.
The stewards enquired into possible interference on the approach to the third last fence involving Viking Splash ridden by James Carroll and Nedzer's Return ridden by Robbie McNamara where it appeared the latter ran short of room.
Having heard evidence from the riders concerned, the stewards made no alterations to the placings but they found that James Carroll had ridden carelessly and suspended him for five days.
Local trainer Colin McBratney who trains at Crossgar, Co Down said: “Carsonstown Boy hasn’t won for two years. He was second in a Grade 2 at Aintree two years ago. He lost his way a little bit.
“Ground doesn’t matter to him. I might look at the Foxhunters at Cheltenham for him as this was a very good hunters chase he has won.
“He’ll not have many runs before then. If he doesn’t go for the Foxhunters he could go for a big handicap chase.
“It’s good to win for his first-time owner Mr Monaghan.”
Seven pound claiming amateur Noel McParlan was on board the winner.
Before racing JP McManus purchased Perce Rock trained by John Halley. He came home fifth in the race.
Michael Graham
