Authinger a winner in the past for Arthur Moore, scored on start number five for Tony Martin (across the card double after Woodsophiesmile s win at the Curragh) when taking the Dark Horse Wine Bar Beginners Chase at Down Royal with authority under Robbie Power.

Tipped up by at least one good judge for this two and a half miler, the Sadler's Wells gelding travelled well to challenge and a mistake at the second last did little to hinder his progress towards victory.

It was soon all over bar a fall at the last and Authinger avoided any such mishap, going on to beat short-priced favourite Jansboy by three lengths.

William Duffy is one of the Irish Shamrock Syndicate that own Authinger and he explained: "There are seven of us in it and we are from north County Dublin, Kerry and County Meath.

"He's the only horse we have. We were expecting a good run after his effort at Gowran where he jumped great.

"He was second in Fairyhouse when he came from a long way back and jumped well. Robbie (Power) said that day that he would win races. We'd know Robbie through hunting."

Eleven to four chance Howwoulduno (second favourite) was behind the leaders when veering left at the start and he took no part.

The Stewards received a report from Mr Derek Cullen, Turf Club Starter, stating that after he released the tape at the start of this race, Howwoulduno, trained by Liam Lennon, and ridden by B.T O'Connell, ducked left and refused to race, a fact that was confirmed to the Stewards Secretaries by the rider concerned.

Having considered the reports, the Stewards were satisfied a fair start had been effected and took no further action.

(MG & EM)