Chicago Grey kept his one hundred per cent record for Gordon Elliott by defying an absence going back to last April by battling best to see off Smoking Aces by half a length in the Clonoulty Hurdle.

The grey sluiced up to lose his maiden tag at the ninth attempt at Perth 219 days ago, and here with Paul Carberry in the plate, the son of Luso got to the front about a hundred yards out and he stayed on really well from there home to prevail.

Elliott is enjoying a great run at present as he's had winners the last two days at Dundalk - Grand Opera and Wikaala.

The Capranny Stables trainer reported by phone: "He done it well and he'll even come on from that run. He'll be a better horse in the spring. We gave him a break after Perth as he had been in for a long time at that stage."

Carberry was allowed to ride at Thurles today because there wasn't scheduled jump racing in Ireland today. He'll resume his 30 day ban tomorrow. Luska Lad meanwhile, with Brian O'Connell aboard, having his first ride as a professional, was beaten from before three out. The 11/8 favourite eventually came home in seventh. He was found to be post race normal.