The Church Gate ran out a cosy winner of the finale at Fairyhouse this afternoon when claiming the two-and-a-half mile handicap hurdle. Fintown Boy went to post seeking a quick hat-trick in the race and was sent off the 6/4 favourite.

He was heading before the last flight by The Church Gate, however, as Keith Donoghue produced the 11/1 shot with a strong run.

Matthew Smith 's charge was soon in control and was easing down at the line to post a three-and-a-half length success over Euro So Brave Fintown Boy faded to finish fourth.

The winning trainer said afterwards:- “We didn’t bring him back into the parade ring as he gets a bit hot and we wanted to get water on to cool him down. He’s been like that before but he’s fine now.

“I was a bit worried about the ground but he handled it fine and he did that well.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)