Boston Bob fall hands RSA Chase to Culloty

Triple Gold Cup-winning rider Jim Culloty enjoyed Festival success as a trainer when Lord Windermere took the RSA Chase at Cheltenham.

He possibly looked a fortunate winner, however, as the Willie Mullins-trained Boston Bob crashed out at the final fence when going well in front.

That left Lord Windermere (8-1), ridden by Davy Russell, to get the better of Lyreen Legend by a length and three-quarters and give Culloty, who will be forever associated with the great Best Mate, a first winner at the meeting since he gave up riding.

Hadrian’s Approach was six lengths away third.

A steady pace was set by Theatrical Star, with Goulanes and Houblon Des Obeaux close up.

But the favourite Unioniste was never able to make a serious challenge when the race hotted up coming down the hill.

Boston Bob took it up after the third-last under a decisive move by Paul Townend.

He quickly went a few lengths clear only to fall at the final fence, but the race still went to Ireland.