Michael O'Leary and Noel Meade at Leopardstown. Photo: Healy Racing

It started with a kiss

Published: Mon 29 Dec 2014, 11:37 AM

Last updated: Mon 29 Dec 2014, 11:51 AM

RTE's Ted Walsh was quick off the mark yesterday with a comment about popular Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary planting a 'smacker' on top trainer Noel Meade after Road To Riches won the Lexus Chase.

'There's Noel Meade kissing Michael O'Leary, he must be hard up for someone to kiss' commented Ted Walsh as the top trainer and top owner celebrated a great victory in the big race on the third day of the Leopardstown Festival.

Road To Riches won the Grade 1 Lexus Chase to augment his reputation after winning the Galway Plate last July and more recently JNwine.com Champion Chase as he stepped up in class yesterday.

It was a good day for Michael O'Leary also as Road To Riches provided his jockey Bryan Cooper with a Grade 1 double on the day after Lieutenant Colonel was also on the mark.

'I’m thrilled. Things didn’t go quite to plan as we thought we’d be able to make it, but it worked out well in the end,' stated Meade.

“We knew he was in great shape and he’s been improving all the time since Punchestown.

“I’ll have to talk to Michael and Eddie. I don’t know if he’ll run again but obviously we’re hoping to go to Cheltenham,' added the trainer.

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