Meade and Walsh strike in Leinster National with Cap York

Eoin Walsh enjoyed the biggest victory of his career as he guided Cap York to victory in the MansionBet-sponsored Leinster National, providing Gigginstown and Noel Meade a boost ahead of the Cheltenham Festival.

The eight-year-old, who was an 11-1 chance, travelled well into the race and was able to skip into the lead under Walsh before holding off a resurgent Cheb De Kerviniou, who ran on bravely in defeat under Rachael Blackmore.

The win gives the novice Cap York a first over fences on his sixth attempt, his previous best effort came when second to Battleoverdoyen at Galway in October.

The Gordon Elliott-trained General Principle finished third, ridden by Gavin Brouder.

Meade said: "He's always had plenty of ability but he is quirky and has often switched himself off in races, I told Eoin [Walsh] to get him away quickly and to give him plenty of encouragement. That's what he did and it all worked out well.

"He stays very well and he could go for the Irish National."

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