The Gordon Elliott-handled seven-year-old son of Westerner gave the trainer and stable jockey Jack Kennedy their only winner of the day when taking the Dooley Insurance Champion Novice Chase.

18/1 chance Western Fold lands Grade 1 honours in a thrilling Dooley Insurance Group Champion Novice Chase! @punchestownrace @jackkennedy15 | @gelliott_racing pic.twitter.com/cz1lUqcgUT

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) April 28, 2026

Fleur In The Park (11/1), winner of the Grade 1 Willow Warm Gold Cup at Fairyhouse’s Easter Festival, claimed the runner-up spot on this occasion, three-and-three-quarter lengths behind the winner.

Representing the trainer and jockey combination of Andy Slattery and Cian Quirke, the son of Grange Stud-based stallion Walk In The Park, had four-and-a-half lengths in hand on the third-place finisher Nowwhatdoyouthink (33/1) at the line.

"An unexpected one!"

Jack Kennedy on Grade 1 glory aboard Western Fold which puts him one further clear in the title race.

"I can't put my finger on it," adds the rider on El Cairos @Franmberry | @punchestownrace pic.twitter.com/DXhKT3B5pn

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) April 28, 2026

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