Red Laser and Shane Foley © Photo Healy Racing
Red Laser bounced back to form to run out a convincing winner of the second division of the 47-65 handicap at Dundalk.
Michael Halford 's charge had run well here on his penultimate start but had faded tamely earlier this month back at the track.
He cut out the running in the mile contest with Chillie Billie and went on from that rival under two furlongs out.
Shane Foley soon kicked for home on the 6/1 shot (from 7/1) and he had things in control inside the final furlong. The Reek backed from 11/4 into 9/4 favourite, stayed on to finish a length-and-three-quarters second without ever looking a danger.
"I'm delighted for the owner Mark Phelan who has been very patient with the horse. His company BHP Insurance sponsors the Irish Champion Hurdle," said Halford.
"He had a good run here on his second last start but disappointed a bit the last day. He loves the surface and will keep on the go over the winter."
(On course reporting by Alan Magee)
