Down Memory Lane and Mark Walsh © Photo Healy Racing
Down Memory Lane defied a big market drift to make an impressive winning start over fences at Navan, as trainer Gordon Elliott made it four on the afternoon.
The JP McManus-owned gelding had been at the head of the betting at 9/4 this morning but went to post a 7/1 shot on his return to action in the two-mile-one beginners chase.
Mark Walsh bounced out in front and asked his mount for an effort jumping the second last. King Of Kingsfield loomed larged behind going to that fence but came under pressure and was untidy at the last as Down Memory Lane jumped it well.
The Walk In The Park gelding galloped on strongly in the closing stages to post a comprehensive seven length success.
Down Memory Lane had won his point-to-point, bumper and maiden hurdle before finishing a well beaten third in Grade 1 company over timber at Leopardstown last Christmas.
Elliott said: "He's a good horse and had a few small little problems last year.
"I thought it was a very good performance there today, he jumped great and galloped the whole way to the line.
"It (Drinmore) might come a bit soon - obviously, I will have a chat with Frank (Berry) and the whole team and see."
Paddy Power cut the winner from 66/1 into 20/1 for the Arkle.
(Quotes by Michael Graham)
