HOT-favourite Footpad departed at the final fence as Saint Calvados made all the running in a dramatic race for the Grade 3 Poplar Square Chase at Naas.
British raider Saint Calvados hardly hit a twig hands of Gavin Sheehan, putting last season’s Arkle Trophy hero under pressure from an early stage in the two-mile contest.
Saint Calvados springs a surprise by landing the Grade 3 Poplar Square Chase at @NaasRacecourse for @Harry_Whitt. After some jumping errors from Footpad, the favourite unseats Ruby Walsh at the last: pic.twitter.com/Ixsas1lAVu
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) November 10, 2018
Sheehan lifted the tempo turning for home and Harry Whittington’s flamboyant jumper held a three-length lead at the last, where Footpad slithered badly, giving Ruby Walsh little chance of keeping the partnership intact, after making a couple of mistakes earlier in proceedings.
With the 4/9 favourite market leader gone, Saint Calvados (5/2) was left clear and coasted home by four and a half lengths, with Tycoon Prince claiming second place.
Saint Calvados was cut to 5/1 from 8/1 for the Betfair Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown on December 8th, with the sponsors.
READ THE FULL NAAS REPORT IN NEXT WEEKEND'S EDITION OF THE IRISH FIELD
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