Banjaxed and Ricky Doyle (right) do battle with eventual third Beggars Rock© Photo Healy Racing
The concluding INH Stallion Owners EBF Beginners Chase at Cork produced a cracking finish with Banjaxed emerging on top for trainer Lorna Fowler.
Ricky Doyle produced his mount to challenge at the third last in the two-mile-five contest and he jumped the final fence along with Beggars Rock and El Champo
The 4/1 shot got the best leap at the last and edged a good duel with El Champo on the run-in to secure a head victory.
Banjaxed had been fifth in handicap company on his return at Down Royal last month and held an official chase mark of 119 in a race restricted to horses rated 116 or less over hurdles.
"It was a good opportunity for him and I am a great optimist so think there is definitely an upward trajectory in him,” said Lorna.
"He got into a lot of trouble at Down Royal but happily it didn't bother him although he still behaves novicey. There is nothing like getting your head in front to give you all the confidence though.
"I wouldn't be afraid to step him up in trip and for all that he hasn't raced that much, he hasn't really had a proper break. I will either give him another run and a break or a little break then bring him back.
"I'm delighted for the owners, one of which is my husband Harry, and while they say 'happy wife happy life', I say 'happy husband happy life!'"
(Quotes by Tom Weekes)
