Gift claims hunters in style Final Gift justified good support when claiming the hunters chase at Tramore for John Costello. The race complexion changed after the third-last fence as front-runner, and 9/4 favourite, Nevskij pulled up quickly. Lord Heathfield and Final Gift soon duelled for the lead but the later stretched on after the second last. 'Corky' Carroll got a great leap at the final fence from the Old Vic gelding, who powered clear to the line for a 10-length success. The 11/4 winner (9/2 in morning) had been showing progressive form 'on the track' and had run well to chase home Nevskij last time out at Cork. “He'll go for a winners hunters chase at Down Royal or Killarney now,” revealed Costello. The fog again made viewing conditions difficult during the race. (Additional reporting by Donal Murphy)
