Vischio and Richie Deegan (left) outjump Heliers Bay at the last© Photo Healy Racing
The second division of the John Purfield Memorial Handicap Hurdle went to the 11/4 favourite Vischio who completed a near 18/1 double for 5lb claimer Richie Deegan.
Successful earlier on Lady Lingo Deegan took his time on Dick Donohoe’s filly before getting into contention after the bypassed third-last flight of hurdles. Vischio disputed the lead with Heliers Bay at the next and a more fluent leap than that rival at the last sealed victory.
Two and three quarter lengths was the winning margin in the end, with the first two well clear of the remainder.
A winner at Kilbeggan last month, the Holy Roman Emperor 4-year-old had finished runner-up to Attitash on her most recent outing at Sligo.
It was a fifth winner, and a first double, for Deegan since joining the paid ranks at the start of the season.
"She did it well, she travelled well and jumped fine," said the winning rider.
“I was worried for a little bit turning in as there was plenty of traffic in front of us but I pulled out as I wanted to be out there for a bit of nice ground too. She won well in the end.
“We missed the first the last day and kind of lost our position but I'd say we bumped into a nice one of Willie's (Attitash).”
Quotes from Gary Carson
