Small fields often throw up strange results and so it proved in the four-runner W T O'Grady Memorial EBF Novice Chase where Quietly Fancied (8/1) came home over 50 lengths clear of sole remaining rival Glenlo Abbey (40/1).
Jumping as always is the key in these novice events, and the whole complexion of the two and a half miles event changed at the second last where 4/6 favourite Bishopsfurze exited when looking in control.
The jolly was two or three lengths up at the time under Ruby Walsh before brushing through the fence and failing to get his landing gear out.
This left Quietly Fancied with a commanding advantage, and he safely negotiated the final fence under amateur Roger Quinlan to score. Frisco Depot (7/4) had already dropped out tamely before the straight and was pulled up.
Wnning trainer Oliver McKiernan said, “He might not have beaten the other horse but he wasn't giving up. He's improving but has had his problems and missed a year.
“He's definitely going in the right direction and is a very good jumper. He should stay three miles, and we'll look for a winners-of-one for him now.”
