Only two counted in the opening beginners chase at Thurles as Zanahiyr edged a good battle with Aspire Tower in the two-miler.

Aspire Tower jumped out to make the running and had Zanahiyr for company for most of the trip, as they went clear of the pack.

Jack Kennedy grabbed a lead over the second last on the Gordon Elliott-trained Zanahiyr but his mount was the first to come off the bridle before the final fence.

Aspire Tower travelled well to dispute again in the straight and there was nothing between the pair over the last.

7/4 favourite Zanahiyr just found a bit more in the closing stages to stick his head in front and record a half length success. There was 15 lengths back to Figaroc in third.

Kennedy said afterwards:- "It was a good performance and I suppose he was really only getting going (at the finish). He is a good age now, gets further than two miles so I'm delighted that he got his head in front.

"I was keen to be forward and wasn't concerned about the distance although in the race, I thought Rachael (Blackmore on Aspire Tower) was quickening away from me. He knuckled down though and dug in.

"He can step up in distance but is also ok over a strongly run two miles so there are plenty of options."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)