Ciel De Neige © Photo Healy Racing
The 5/4 favourite Ciel De Neige completed a quick double for Mark Walsh when landing the rated novice chase.
The Authorized gelding tracked the leaders before getting into contention after three out. He went past Fire Attack on the run to the final fence and cleared away to hand out a five and a half length beating to that rival. Alko Rouge was a further 13 lengths away in third place.
After previous wins at Thurles and Navan, the winner is unbeaten in three starts over fences and was cut to 10/1 (from 33s) by Paddy Power for the Sporting Life Arkle Chase.
Winning trainer Willie Mullins said: "He did that nicely that nicely coming back to two miles. It was just a pity about the two mistakes he made.
“I'm very happy he did that, he enjoys things more over fences.”
When asked what his best trip was he added:- “I'd imagine two-and-a-half but he's well able to handle two. It depends on the opposition.
“He'll be entered in a couple of races (at Cheltenham) and maybe in a handicap as well. We'll have a look at options after this and chat to connections to see where he fits in.”
(GC & MN)
