Cracking Christmas card at Naas Racecourse provides festive cheer for punters

Naas Racecourse’s new Christmas meeting proved a hit with racing fans on Tuesday as a strong card delivered plenty of excitement on the track to match the festivities of the numerous Christmas parties which were taking place at the venue.

In what was a mixed day for the punters, the heavily backed Willie Mullins-trained Relegate was among the more popular winners, with local jockey Ruby Walsh on board as they captured the Clinton Higgins Maiden Hurdle with a half length victory over Caravation. The 4/5 favourite was impressive over the two mile distance, and Mullins is hoping that she might feature in Cheltenham next year as part of his team.

The 2m Handicap Steeplechase went the way of trainer Joseph O’Brien as he saddled Punches Cross for Clane jockey Mark Walsh, and the duo enjoyed a strong finish to finish more than three lengths clear of Well Tom in second.

The KildareNow Beginners’ Steeplechase was won by A Plus Tard, trained by Henry de Bromhead and ridden by Rachael Blackmore who continues to star near the top of the Champion Jockey leaderboard, just two wins behind Paul Townend.

Carlow trainer Thomas Foley saddled the winner in the Lawlor’s of Naas Handicap Hurdle as All About Alfie dominated to finish ahead of Kilkeaskin Molly in second.