Balbriggan and Vautour impress in Navan

The Gordon Elliott-trained Balbriggan took the spoils in the big race at Navan today with a majestic performance.

The well-backed 4/1 favourite took the race on early and claimed a one and 3/4 length victory over Omega Star in the Ladbrokes Troytown Handicap Chase under jockey Kevin Sexton. Co Meath trainer Elliott said: 'I couldn't believe the price he was (20-1 on Saturday and 11-1 on track). He's in all the staying chases like the Becher and the Paddy Power. He'd a nice light weight on his back and Kevin jumped him out and made use of it. He gave him a fine ride.' The other big winner of the day was Vautour, who romped home on his steeplechasing debut. The short-priced favourite, winner of the Supreme Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham last March, retained his unbeaten record in style, was sent into the early lead by Ruby Walsh and took the fences in his stride en route to an eight-length victory.