Gordon Elliott trainer of Tombstone© Photo Healy Racing
After winning the opener with Poli Roi Gordon Elliott and owners Gigginstown House Stud doubled-up with Tombstone in the Porter & Co. Beginners Chase.
Second on his debut over fences at Fairyhouse last month, the son of Robin Des Champs was expected to go one place better today, going off the 11/8 favourite.
Settled in second by Jack Kennedy, the successful chestnut led from three out, but was soon joined and pressed by Gilt Shadow
There was nothing between the two as they approached the last, but Gilt Shadow took a fatal fall there, leaving Tombstone to come home alone. Thebarrowman (25/1), who led for much of the contest, finished sixteen lengths back in second under Roger Loughran for Adrian Keatley, while Midnight Escape (9/2) was another length and three parts back in third, with Davy Russell in the saddle for Elliott. Moulin A Vent was sent off a well-supported 6/4 chance (9/4 last night), but he never looked like winning, finishing a disappointing tenth of ten finishers.
Davy Condon, representing Elliott who is in Del Mar with Beckford, said afterwards: "He obviously learned a lot from his first run in Fairyhouse and Jack (Kennedy) said he jumped great bar the second last. They were racing down to it and he just kind of grabbed it and hurdled it a bit.
"Jack was delighted with him. He's a real hurdler and he likes to get on with things. The step up in trip suited him as well - two and a half would probably be his ideal trip.
"The softer the ground the better as he doesn't like it too good, it was nearly a bit too good the last day in Fairyhouse.
"Everything suited him today. I know it was unfortunate the horse (Gilt Shadow) falling but it looked like he was getting on top."
Tombstone remains a 20/1 chance with Paddy Power for JLT Novices Chase at Cheltenham in March.
STEWARDS REPORTS
The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Moulin A Vent (GB), trained by Noel Meade, at the request of the Stewards and reported that the animal was blowing hard but recovered well post race.
S.W. Flanagan, rider of Moulin A Vent (GB) trained by Noel Meade, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount never travelled.
Additional reporting by Michael Graham
