Review DOWN ROYAL 17TH MAR

Stephen Mahon experienced the highs and lows of jump racing at Down Royal, saddling a double but also witnessing Romaha crash out with the feature event at his mercy.

Rohama had seen off a determined challenge from What A Native in the Tennent's No.1 Chase and held a clear lead when taking a heavy fall at the second last.

That left Jack High in front and he stayed on well to get the better of Nil Desperandum by two-and-a-half lengths after a gruelling battle.

The Ted Walsh-trained winner is now on course for the Grand National and owner Brenda Ross was 'delighted with the way he finished so strongly.'

Mahon's double had come courtesy of front-runners Gaspar and Hilltop Charmer.

Gaspar proved a effortless winner of the opening Inbev Maiden Hurdle under Michael Darcy. The 9/4f bounced out in front and never came off the bridle, cantering to a eight-length success over Maura's Legacy.

Hilltop Charmer was made to fight for his success in the Beck's Beginners Chase. 4/7f Caimin's Caper threw down a strong challenge on the run-in, but Roger Loughran forced his mount back in front close home to claim the spoils.

'I've been in Cheltenham all week so credit must go to the lads, particulary my head lad Johnny Armitage,' said Mahon.

Tom Dreaper, who is based with Ferdy Murphy in England, made a flying visit home and his brief stay proved worthwhile as he recorded a double on Doodle Addle and Desperado Queen.

He teamed up with his father Jim to score with Doodle Addle in the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Hurdle, forcing him into the lead at the last to beat Chill Out by five lengths.

Dreaper was narrowly denied a quick double on odds-on shot Caimin's Caper but Desperado Queen provided the brace in the Hoegaarden Mares Beginners Chase.

Ardee trainer Bill Doran gave Dreaper the leg up on Desperado Queen and the mare battled gamely, after leading three out, to beat Blonde Ambition by a length-and-a-half.

Big Zoomo was a game winner of the Stella Artois Hunters Chase, leading from the fourth fence and staying on well in the closing stages to record a 10-length victory over Stormy Tribunal.