Taponthego gives O'Keeffe a brace at Gowran

Jockey Darragh O'Keeffe completed a double on the card as chasing debutant Taponthego made a winning start to his new career in the concluding S.I.S. Supporting Irish Racing Beginners Chase at Gowran Park.

Off the track since finishing fourth in the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham in March, the former point-to-point runner-up was produced in excellent shape by Henry De Bromhead.

Leading from the seventh fence, the well backed 11/8f (from 9/4), had only Fleur In The Park for company from four out.

The latter looked to be travelling marginally the better when edging ahead after the third last but Taponthego rallied to regain the lead between the final two fences.

Drawing away on the run-in, the market leader scored by six-and-a-half lengths.

Henry De Bromhead said: "We always hoped he would be a good chaser and he jumped really well today. He looks a good one and you'd hope he will stay further, but we'll see what's coming up. He will come on plenty for the run.

"Colin Motherway recommended him and in fairness he really pushed me to buy him, so all credit to him. I'm delighted for the lads (Both Sides Of The Water Syndicate) who have been great supporters of ours over the years and we've had plenty of fun together."