Easy Game landed an eventful renewal of the Devenish Chase for the second year running at Fairyhouse on Easter Monday.
A field of six runners went to post for the Grade Two contest, with Easy Game a 15-2 chance to successfully defend his crown for Willie Mullins in the hands of Brian Hayes, who is the partner of Rachael Blackmore.
There was an early change to the complexion of the race after the winner’s front-running stablemate Blackbow suffered a heavy and ultimately fatal fall at the third fence, leaving another Mullins runner in Janidil in front.
The latter was the 8-11 favourite having been placed in the Irish Gold Cup and the Ryanair Chase on his last two starts, but he too crashed out in the back straight.
His exit left Cilaos Emery in the lead, but he was claimed by Easy Game between the final two fences and there were seven and a half lengths separating the pair at the line.
Mullins said: “It was a little fortuitous. I thought the horse would need the race but he finished out very well and jumped well.
“I’m very happy for Nick Peacock, the owner. It’s disappointing with Janidil falling and the other fella (Blackbow) unfortunately didn’t make it. Unfortunately that’s the ups and downs of the game.
“He is a big loss. I haven’t had a chance to talk to Paul (Townend) yet, but I’m not sure if he had a heart attack before the fence as he didn’t get up at all.
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