The hope of all racing enthusiasts was for Punchestown to get the go ahead, principally to see Dunguib strut his stuff again, and the Presenting gelding treated his many fans to an exhibition performance when sauntering to a four and a half length win in the Ballymaloe Country Relish Hurdle under Brian O'Connell.
Taking a keen hold, the 2/13 chance led after the third and he showed real enthusiasm and accuracy in the jumping department. On the run-in he stretched clear with the very minimum of pressure from the saddle to see of Puyol
Successful trainer, Philip Fenton said: "That was grand. He wasn't really concentrating over the first two and he learned more today. He jumped with enthusiasm. We'll find out more two weeks tomorrow in the Royal Bond. The ground out there was loose rather than tacky which was okay. Roll on Fairyhouse."
Sean Graham go 2/1 from 5/2 about Dunguib for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle. William Hill are 9/4 from 5/2.
