IT wasn’t with the one the market expected but Gordon Elliott still managed to reign supreme in the Bar One Racing Troytown Handicap Chase, as 5lb-claiming rider Gavin Brouder enhanced his reputation as a big staying handicap specialist with a 20/1 surprise aboard Stuzzikini.

American Mike was all the rage with local punters, but the 5/2 favourite’s effort petered out into sixth approaching the business end of this €100,000 prize.

With Lucid Dreams putting up a bold showing on the front end under Danny Mullins, it looked as though he might repel all challengers. Yeah Man threw his hat into the ring for Gavin Cromwell and looked a serious threat. However, all the while, Brouder was getting a right tune out of Stuzzikini and crept closer.

A strong finishing effort sealed the deal for the enigmatic stayer, drawing clear by two and a half lengths in the colours of VCS Versatile Coating Specialist Ltd and Francis Foran.

Elliott, who saddled nine in the race, was making it a sublime seventh Troytown win across the last 11 runnings. Brouder was also deputising for the sidelined Danny Gilligan.

“I tipped this horse up yesterday on television and I said he had a chance,” said Elliott.

“I just thought he was a horse that leaves a bit for himself, he’s a bit of a monkey and could have a couple of pounds up his sleeve. To win seven Troytowns is unbelievable. Gavin gave him a great ride. Danny was unfortunate, he got a fall [while schooling].”

Brouder had already won a Munster National for Elliott on Aforementioned in 2020, as well as a Midlands National on the Mouse Morris-trained Foxy Jacks last year. This latest staying chase victory meant plenty to him.

“It’s very unfortunate for Danny – hopefully he gets back soon,” said Brouder.

“Fingers crossed this can give my career a help because I’ve had a lot of injuries when things were going well before – that kind of stopped me a bit. Gordon has a lot of lads to look after but has kept me in the loop with a couple of winners.”