A couple of greys filled the first two positions in the Easter Festival 11th - 13th April Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse as the two and a half mile trip took its toll. Favourite Birdie Blitz (100/30) gained the day.

Gigginstown House Stud, successful in the previous event with Ificudiwud looked like they might register another win here through the Gordon Elliott-trained and Davy Russell-ridden Hell On Earth

That Germany gelding led soon after two out and went on at the last.

However Hell On Earth had no extra to give close home and was headed and beaten by a neck by the Simon Torrens-partnered Birdie Blitz.

Unfortunately Gordon Elliott lost Dark Decade who fell at the last when under pressure in a close third.

“That was great to get a win with her. She's a very honest little mare,” said winning trainer Aidan Howard on the J P McManus-owned five-year-old.

“She kept on galloping and handled that ground great. She's only small so Simon's 7lb claim was a big help.”

(GC & EM)