Wexford based trainer Richie O'Keeffe enjoyed a dream start to the 2025 Punchestown Festival as Transprint got up close home to beat stable companion Turnupdevolume in the Kildare Hunt Club Cross Country Chase for the Ladies Perpetual Cup.

Third in the corresponding race 12 months ago, Transprint looked booked for a similar placing as Knockiel Synge and Turnupdevolume appeared to have the race between them after jumping three out.

The former, who was victorious last year, edged ahead at the penultimate fence but was soon headed by Turnupdevolume between the final two obstacles.

However, Transprint found plenty for jockey Anthony James Doyle on the run-in, surging ahead of his stablemate close home to record a three-quarter-length success at odds of 22/1.

It was a first winner under Rules for the rider.

Winning trainer Richie O’Keeffe said: “Transprint keeps going and was third around here last year. He has more experience than the other fella.

“Tony rides out for me at home and he picked Transprint.

“It’s a dream result. They were running well in point-to-points and that stands to them. They loved the ground.

“Vital Island is in the La Touche here on Thursday and Transprint is entered as well.

“They are both in on Saturday as well along with Turnupdevolume, so we’ll see how they turn out.”

Additional reporting by Alan Magee.