It's a stroll for Ned

Arkle Trophy contender Ned Kelly continued his preparations for Cheltenham with an easy all-the-way success at Fairyhouse today.

The Edward O’Grady-trained nine-year-old, formerly a high-class hurdler, was opening his account over the bigger obstacles at the third time of asking in the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Beginners Chase.

He was sent off the 1-3 favourite and his supporters never had a moment’s worry as he jumped well throughout under Davy Russell and cantered over the line some 20 lengths clear of his nearest pursuer, The Royal Dub.

O'Grady was delighted with the performance of the Sue Magnier-owned gelding, who has not been the easiest of horses to train.

“So far this season I’ve only had him about 80 to 85 per cent but I hope that race will leave him 90 to 95%,” he said.

“We hadn’t intended to make the running but he jumped so well that he took himself there.”

He remains a 10-1 chance with Sean Graham for the Irish Independent-sponsored showpiece at Cheltenham.