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Michael Graham

Michael Graham

He's the Kilbeggan Top Chief

Fri 18th Jul 2014, 20:06

Top Chief safely jumps the last in KilbegganTop Chief safely jumps the last in Kilbeggan
© Photo Healy Racing

Gordon Elliott's Top Chief must have enjoyed his trip to Perth as he readily doubled up on his win there when easing home in Kilbeggan's extended three mile handicap hurdle.

That Scottish success came in an extended two and a half mile selling handicap hurdle, whereas today was an 80 to 102 handicap.

The six-year-old gelding was noted travelling well coming to the second last where he jumped into the lead. Noel Dooly's Perrie Hill attempted to keep tabs with him, but Top Chief was too strong as he bounded away to win by an eased down four lengths at 4/1. The runner-up was 9/1 from 14s in the morning. Strain Of Fame was a length and three parts further back in third at 25/1. The 9/4 favourite, Dark Outsider couldn't get involved and finished eighth.

Jockey Davy Condon said: "He stays well, likes the ground and is well handicapped. He should win again."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee

About Michael Graham
Michael has worked in horse racing journalism for more than 15 years, having also written a weekly betting column on Gaelic football and hurling for a newspaper. He is involved in writing the My Racing Story features on this website. He spent a year in South Africa completing a Diploma in Business Administration and also studied Newspaper Journalism in Belfast. He enjoys playing 5-a-side football on a regular basis.