Emperor Waltz enhanced an impressive record at the venue when defying top-weight in the Killarney Park Hotel Handicap.

John Murphy 's Fastnet Rock gelding was strongest in the final furlong under Daniel Redmond, to come out on top by half a length and three lengths from Venezia and Townshend

The latter, the 6/4 favourite, bidding to supply Willie Mullins with a treble on the card, had every chance under Rachael Blackmore but he couldn't find a sufficient change of gear from over a furlong out.

"He is three from three here now. He races lazily but is very genuine and I'm delighted with him; we'll have to wait until August with him now! said Murphy's son George.

"He needs a good trip and we'll look for somewhere without firm in it and see what the handicapper does with him. 

"Today was Daniel's first time riding for us and he was third in the first race and gave that horse a lovely ride so we can't complain."

L.F. Roche, rider of Dixie Highway trained by Patrick J.Flynn, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount raced too keen during this race.

(TW & EM)