Ballytrim looks set to head to Fairyhouse after victory in the Lucan Racing Leinster National at Naas.
Paul Townend 's mount moved smoothly through to lead before the last in the three-miler but had to work on the run-in. Bluesea Cracker threw down a strong challenge on the run to the line but was just held at bay by half a length by Ballytrim.
"The light weight was a big help in a race like this," said trainer Willie Mullins afterwards.
"I would love to run him in the English National but I doubt he'll get in and probably the Irish National is where we'll go.
"I have to apologise to the owner as I told him not to come today! It's back to the drawing board with Equus Maximus (finished second last)."
