Fil Dor © Photo Healy Racing
The Boardsmill Stud Irish EBF Beginners Chase was a two-horse race from a long way out as market principals Fil Dor (10/11 fav) and Saint Roi had a good tussle at the head of affairs.
The latter made the running but the three years younger Fil Dor, in receipt of the 8lb allowance for four-year-olds, kept close tabs on him. The grey moved up to dispute three out and led before the next before being ridden out to score by four lengths with Saint Roi well clear of the rest.
The winning rider said: "We went a nice even gallop the whole way. They're great fences around here. They take a bit of jumping but are very inviting and he jumped very well.
"I was always very happy and down to the last he really pricked his ears. He can be a little bit lazy but he measured it up, popped over it and galloped away to the line.
"I pressed Saint Roi a bit after the fourth-last and tried to get him under pressure early. This lad stays very well so I was always happy that I had him covered.
"It's been a mixed day but any day you have two winners is a great day."
Gordon Elliott, doubling up along with Kennedy after Jungle Prose said: “Jack said it rode a proper race. He was foot perfect apart from one down the back that he landed on top of it.
“It’s great for Andy and Gemma (Brown, owners) who are here today. They don’t get over too often so it’s nice for them.
“You couldn’t but be happy with him and I’d imagine he’ll go to Leopardstown at Christmas.”
Paddy Power gave the winner a quote of 10/1 (from 14/1) for the Arkle and 16/1 (from 33/1) for the Turners Novice Chase.
Quotes from Alan Magee
