Has hardens as Triumph favourite after impressive show Narciso Has shortened into clear favourite for the Triumph Hurdle after a dominant display in the Changing Time Brewery Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown. The Willie Mullins-trained gelding had been runner-up at Fairyhouse on his Irish debut late last month and went one better in today’s Grade 2 contest in fine style. Danny Mullins bounced out in front on the 11/10 favourite before settling in behind the free going Kasper Hauser after a couple of flights. Narciso Has reclaimed the lead down the back straight and kicked turning for home to post a comprehensive 11-length victory. There was a tight battle for second with Adrienne just edging out North Shore by a short-head. Assistant David Casey said afterwards:- “He ran brilliant in Fairyhouse for a horse with such inexperience. “We thought he’d improve from there and were kind of hoping he’d put up that performance today. I think there is plenty of improvement to come as well. “He’s a horse that stays well. We like him, he’s a fair horse. “We were confident he would keep going. Danny wanted to be positive and it worked out great.” Paddy Power made the winner 6/1 favourite (from 10/1) for the Triumph Hurdle in March.
