'Absolute legend' Ballyegan warms hearts for Buckler team

Rather Be: winning chase debutCredit: Alan Crowhurst

There was plenty of Christmas cheer for punters who plumped for front-runners in the first four races with the most heartwarming win courtesy of veteran Ballyegan in the 2m4f handicap chase.

History repeated itself with Bob Buckler’s chaser, successful in the race in 2015, described by rider Sean Houlihan as “an absolute legend”.

The nine-time winner led the nine-runner field from start to finish, staying on relentlessly to win by six lengths.

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Jack HaynesReporter

Published on 21 December 2017inReports

Last updated 18:30, 21 December 2017

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