BLUE Lord (165+) added another Grade 1 success to his profile with his most impressive performance to date over fences, equalling the time figure he achieved when winning his Grade 1 novice at Punchestown last season.

The mistake of Chacun Pour Soi (151) at the second last fence was an influence on the closing stages, although it should not detract from the achievements of the winner who surged clear after the final fence after tracking the strong pace.

The final circuit time was 6.2secs quicker than achieved by Real Steel in the Paddy Power Handicap Chase, which supports the time figure, as well as the theory the Munir & Souede-owned gelding has improved since last season.

However, further progression will be required to match fellow Closutton resident and Champion Chase favourite Energumene so any future successes at this level may depend on the absence of his stable companion.

Misleading

Unfortunately, any comparison with the overall race time of Dysart Dynamo would be misleading as the chase debutant was in a race of on his own despite facing four rivals.

Strangely, the fact Dysart Dynamo (120+) ran such a slow time may be a positive for his prospects over fences as he appeared to be far more respectful of the obstacles than ever was the case over hurdles.

A blend of the fencing technique displayed here, and the speed exhibited last season will see the seven-year-old competitive at the highest level.Real Steel (148) was ridden cold in the feature handicap of the meeting over fences which proved crucial in the final analysis as the 10-year-old retained just enough energy to deny the late challenge of Diol Ker.

This represented a return to form for the one-time Gold Cup sixth whose connections will be plotting a course to Listowel next September.

Diol Ker (148) may well head to Gowran Park for the Thyestes Chase, a race in which he was fourth last season when still a novice over fences.

Noel Meade was also responsible for another eye-catcher in the shape of Farceur Du Large (142+) who finished his race off well after being slow at the last ditch as well as making an error at the second last.

The eight-year-old was attempting three miles for the first time and, having shown his best form going right-handed, should relish another opportunity at the trip racing clockwise.

The other performance of note was Foxy Jacks (146) who further enhanced his good Leopardstown record with another solid display.

A juddering error at the third last when leading was probably more of a hinderance than the interference he suffered on the run for home.

The eight-year-old responded well to being ridden more prominently and may be back for the handicap at the Dublin Racing Festival in which he was second last season.