Turban and Ruby Walsh jump the last fence © Photo Healy Racing
The Underwriting Exchange Dan Moore Memorial Handicap Chase had looked very competitive beforehand but Turban put his rivals to the sword in fine style to run out an easy winner of the valuable prize.
Ruby Walsh produced his mount to challenge two from home in the €100,000 contest and he soon hit the front.
When asked for an effort before the last the 11/2 shot showed a smart turn of foot to settle matters and soon shot clear of his rivals.
The Willie Mullins' trained gelding went on to record a cosy six-length success in the 2m2f event. Competitive Edge was the gamble of the race, backed from 8/1 this morning and returned 7/2 favourite.
He couldn't go with the winner before the last and finished second while last year's winner Lastoftheleaders was back in third.
It was another big winner for owner Edward O'Connell, who also has Champion Hurdle prospect Un De Sceaux..
“He ran a nice race (over hurdles) in Cork and this is a nice race to win,” said Mullins.
“He loves that ground and is a helluva jumper. I'd imagine that's his Gold Cup. The Leopardstown Chase comes too soon.
“If he keeps improving we'll look at a graded race for him.”
Mullins was delighted to land the big pot but would prefer to see the race back at it's original Easter date.
The race was moved to this date when the Normans Grove was switched to the Easter festival.
“I didn't think it was a good decision at the time and I still don't even though I'm the beneficiary today.
“I think it's too early in the season for a race of that value. This race should be at Easter and the Normans Grove should still be on this card.”
(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)
