Rachael Blackmore and Chelseas Friend© Photo Healy Racing
Chelseas Friend came out on the right side of a battle with John Adams in Kilbeggan's extended three mile handicap hurdle.
The 9/2 shot was joined by John Adams on the lengthy run-in due to the final flight being bypassed (Kevin Brouder walked away after being unseated from Shean Glory at the fourth).
The front two fought out the spoils in a protracted tussle but close home Chelseas Friend pulled that bit more out under Rachael Blackmore to win by a neck.
Handicap debutant John Adams ran a gallant race in second at 33/1, in first-time blinkers. He was two lengths ahead of Steps Match (28/1).
John Mangan, brother of trainer Jimmy and owner Billy, said: “She is the old pedigree of Buck House and Doorknocker who won the Champion Hurdle. There is not much of that pedigree left. She won on soft ground in Ballinrobe and good ground today.
“She had problems as a four and five-year-old and lucky enough a vet in Kildorrery, Conor O’Brien, solved them and she’s won three since.
“Rachael keeps saying “I’m going to the front too soon” but we are so lucky to have the best rider in the world riding for us.”
Chelseas Friend won over a similar trip in Ballinrobe last month.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
