Landofhopeandglory and Mark Walsh lead Zig Zag and J J Slevin home© Photo Healy Racing
Uneasy 4/6 chance Landofhopeandglory remained unbeaten over hurdles when taking the Luna Bar Supporting Cavan GAA 3-y-o Hurdle with the minimum of fuss at Punchestown.
Mark Walsh was in the plate on the Group 2 placed Flat racer, and he followed up his maiden win over flights, from Fairyhouse on November 7th, seeing off his Joseph O'Brien trained stable companion Zig Zag by a convincing four lengths.
"He travelled well and, like the last day, his jumping got better as the race went on. He was left in front turning in which wasn't ideal but that's just the way the race worked out," said O'Brien.
"We'll see how he comes out of this race before deciding if he goes to Fairyhouse for the Grade 3. He came out of his last race well so it's an option. JP (McManus, owner) and Frank (Berry, racing manager) both felt the extra experience today would do him good.
"Big Ben (second to Landofhopeandglory at Fairyhouse) could go to Gowran Park next weekend."
Paddy Power go 10/1 from 12/1 about Landofhopeandglory for the Triumph Hurdle. Joseph O'Brien is 7/4 (unchanged) to win the same event at the Cheltenham festival.
The Stewards interviewed J.J. Slevin, rider of Zig Zag, concerning his use of the whip in this race.
Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3(g), in that he used the whip with his arm above shoulder height and having considered his record, suspended him for two race days.
M.J. Bolger, rider of Mubtakker (GB) trained by John C. McConnell, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount made a respiratory noise in running.
(AM & EM)
