British champion Sean Bowen was at his brilliant best in the opener at Punchestown today when giving Putapoundinthejar a power-packed ride to claim the Specialist Group Handicap Hurdle.

The Tony Martin-trained gelding settled mid-division in the two-miler before taking closer order going to the third last.

Bowen was rowing along in sixth on his mount turning for home and he looked to have a mountain to climb as Battle Of Ridgeway skipped clear before the last.

The Walk In The Park gelding stuck to his task gamely though to get on top in the closing stages and record a half-length victory.

Putapoundinthejar had won his maiden hurdle at Down Royal in January before making little impression in Grade 2 company at Kelso in early March. Today was his handicap debut.

Martin said:- “On the bend turning in I thought we’d sit and suffer and take our chances, but the jockey knew better and it all worked out.

“I’d hope that he’ll make a chaser in time. He’s a typical Walk In The Park who can be on edge until he gets cantering and then he’s very straight forward.

“Sean has ridden for us a few times in England before.”

Bowen added:- “He did well to win as he didn’t jump well at all. He got into a rhythm from halfway and did well to pick up the leader.

“I had a good clear run down to the last. He winged the last and picked up well from the back of it.

“It’s good ground and he enjoyed that. He will have learned loads today.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)