Frontal Assault and Jack Kennedy (nearest)© Photo Healy Racing
Last season's Irish Grand National runner-up Frontal Assault made a winning return to action at Galway this afternoon, completing a double for Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy on the card.
The 5/2 shot tracked Darrens Hope for most of the two-mile-six trip in the Mongey Communications Chase before going on after the last.
His stamina kicked in down the straight in the testing conditions as he galloped on strongly to post a four-and-a-half length victory.
It was the first start for the Presenting gelding since finishing second in the Easter highlight and the Gigginstown gelding was recording his first win over fences, adding to two hurdle victories.
Elliott said:- “He was second in an Irish National the last day and I’d imagine we’ll head for something like a Troytown.
“Limerick would be a bit sharp for him and Navan suits him better.
“I thought he’d need the run today but I’d say the race fell apart when you look at the second and third. I was pleased with what he did and Jack was positive on him.”
5/6 favourite Jon Snow proved a disappointment in the race, finishing last of the five.
Paddy Power made the winner 10/1 (from 16/1) for the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham and 33/1 (from 50/1) for the Grand National at Aintree.
(Quotes by Alan Magee)
