Brechin Castle makes light of long absence Brechin Castle made virtually all to land 2/7 odds in the William Hill Each Way Extra Challenge Series Maiden Hurdle that got Naas under way. He was making his stable debut for Willie Mullins, and indeed hurdle debut, having won at Listed level in a bumper in Britain when with Ben Brookhouse. He had been off-track since December 2023, but that didn't prevent him going off 2/7 favourite with main-market-rival Bulgaden Castle scratched. Paul Townend dictated on the eight-year-old gelding, but they appeared vulnerable to Famous Figure and Jack Kennedy who travelled the better and led narrowly between the final two flights. There was no questioning Brechin Castle's resolution off the long break, though, as he rallied to lead approaching the last. He was notable strong on the run-in as he drew six-and-a-half-lengths clear of Famous Figure (13/2). There was a gap of nine-and-a-half lengths back to Tutu Twist who was backed down to 4/1. Townend said: “He’s a lovely bonny horse. Obviously, he had been off the track for a long time, but popped away well in front. “He had a little blow, so I think he’ll improve a little bit for it as well. “What looked like a race, we settled quick enough. It’s good to get him back on the track. “He had a decent level of form and he still has it, I think. “I’d say they are just happy to get him back on the track at this stage.” Additional reporting by Gary Carson
