< Rare Bob did Cooldine's RSA Chase credentials no harm when readily taking top honours in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Novice Chase at Navan.

Dessie Hughes' charge could finish only fourth to Cooldine in the Dr. P.J. Moriarty Novice Chase on his latest outing, but he took full advantage of the ease in grade.

After tracking Bronte Bay throughout the three-mile contest, Paddy Flood sent his mount on after jumping the third last and he held a five-length advantage at the line.

The Athboy Hurdle resulted in a second hurdling victory for Brave Betsy (6-1).

Winning jockey Davy Russell was content to sit on the heels of early leader Charlie Yardbird and although slightly flattered to be left in a clear lead when that rival crashed out two from home, Michael Fitzsimons' charge held favourite Faltering Fullback two and a half lengths at bay.

There was another surprise in the Nobber Maiden Hurdle, as 25-1 chance Ashburton Lad dug deep to beat warm favourite Archiestown by two lengths.

There was drama earlier in the contest when Alittlealexandrite spooked and went through the wing at the second flight, carrying out the well-fancied grey Havagoodsip in the process.< Benalma produced another shock when the 33-1 chance made every yard of the running in the Trim Beginners Chase.

Pauline Gavin's charge looked set to be reeled in by odds-on favourite Captain Conflict but he jumped violently to the right at the last allowing Andrew McNamara's charge to hold on by a neck.

Mags Mullins' Marlay Park followed up his wide-margin Thurles success with victory in the Athlumney (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race under Barry Connell.< Halfback (8-1) delivered on the promise of his recent course second when landing the Garlow Cross Handicap Hurdle, while Martin Brassil's well-backed Moville (9-4) made a smooth hurdling introduction in the Kilberry Maiden Hurdle.

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