Bal Kauto completed his hat-trick in style with an easy success in the two-mile-three handicap chase at Downpatrick this afternoon.

The Balko gelding has been a revelation since joining Declan Queally and took his tally to three from four runs for the Waterford handler.

Having been a cosy winner on his chase debut at Clonmel eight days ago the Balko gelding went to post a 6/5 shot today to defy a 10lb rise for that victory.

Shane Fitzgerald tracked the leaders on his mount before moving up to dispute two from home.

The favourite went on over the last and soon scooted clear for a cosy nine length win.

Queally said: "He's in right order, a lovely sharp horse and jumps like a cat.

"He's in on Tuesday (at Wexford) with a penalty and I think he would have 12st 5lb. We'll see about Shane riding him, we might have to claim off him.

"We'll see how he comes out of today, we are staying the night anyway. We will see how it goes. It is great to have today under our belt and if he is not right for Tuesday, we will give him a little chance now.

"He's a real bonny horse and he is able to flick along on nice ground. I'm mad about him."

When asked if Galway was on his mind, he replied: "Look it is low-grade stuff, they are handy races but he has won them so we will see.

"It is grand for a syndicate who bought him for small money and he has won three races."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)