He may have made his backers sweat but Castle Oliver took the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Rated Novice Chase more convincingly than a neck winning margin would suggest.

Mark Walsh always looked reasonably happy in this two miler, Down Royal’s fourth event, despite getting after his mount over the closing fences in the straight.

“When I gave him a squeeze I thought he was going to get there easier,” said Walsh.

“In fairness he winged the last two and got there in time for the line.”

The J P McManus-owned and Padraig Roche-trained 6/4 favourite upstaged Diamond Turf close home to follow up on a Fairyhouse success over five furlongs further a fortnight back.

"He's improving the whole time, he's a fine big horse,” said Roche.

"I'd say it wasn't the greatest race but he got his head in front and we are delighted with him.

"He's a fine big horse and he jumps and gallops. The track really suited him.

"He surprised us a bit as he doesn't show a whole lot at home. He seems to save it for the track which is a good thing."

The Stewards interviewed D.N. Russell, rider of Diamond Turf (FR), concerning his use of the whip in the latter stages of this race.

Evidence was heard from the rider concerned.

Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that D.N. Russell was in breach of R10(3)(g) by using his whip with excessive frequency.

Having taken his previous record into consideration, the Stewards suspended D.N. Russell for 1 raceday.

(MG & EM)