Intense Raffles holds off late challenge to win Irish Grand National
Jockey JJ Slevin celebrates after winning the BoyleSports Irish Grand National Steeplechase, aboard Intense Rafflee. Picture: Seb Daly/Sportsfile
The same but different. That was how Tom Gibney summed up his feelings after Intense Raffles gave him a second victory in the BoyleSports Irish Grand National.
Unlike shock 2012 victor Lion Na Bearnai, there was pressure with Intense Raffles given the Simon Munir and Isaac Souede-owned grey had proven his liking for Fairyhouse by winning twice at the Meath venue since his arrival from France.
