With the defection of Alderwood (change in going) just four went to post for the Dermot Hughes Cars Sales Chase and it was Usa who came out on top under Barry Geraghty for Stephen Mahon.

The seven-year-old son of Bertolini was available at 8/1 this morning (before Alderwood came out) and he opened on-course at just 11/4, the price which he returned.

Settled in rear he progressed into third before the fifth last fence as Theatre Mill began to struggle (pulled up after that fence).

He jumped the fourth last in unison with his two remaining rivals, Realt Dubh and Toostrong and the trio remained together over the third and second last.

Usa travelled best on the approach to the last and a foot perfect jump there sealed the deal as he raced away to win by four and three parts of a length.

Toostrong finished second, while Realt Dubh (15/8 favourite) fell at the last when beaten but was remounted to take third.

Winning owner Tom Quinn said afterwards: "He is a nice little horse and he has taken to fences nicely.

"He has been tipped off by a short head a couple of times or else he could have another couple of notches.

"He is a summer horse and he won on the flat at Bellewstown. He will maybe go back for a novice chase and we will keep him on the go over the summer.

"Barry said he jumped like a dream."

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Stewards interviewed Thomas Mullins, trainer of Alderwood, in relation to the excuse of 'ground conditions', offered for non running.

Evidence was heard from the trainer who stated that while he was happy with the ground conditions , he was concerned with one particular area which was quicker than ideal, bearing in mind that the horse was returning from injury.

Evidence was also heard from Mr Lorcan Wyer, Clerk of the Course.

Having considered the evidence, the Stewards accepted the explanation offered and took no further action.

R.M. Power, rider of Theatre Mill, trained by Paul Nolan, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount lost his action and pulled up.

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Theatre Mill, trained by Paul Nolan, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be stiff post race.

Additional reporting by Michael Graham