AIG Next For Hardy Eustace Dual Champion Hurdle hero Hardy Eustace delighted connections as he set out on the road to a third title with a facile success at Punchestown.The Dessie Hughes-trained gelding appeared to have a simple task on paper against just two rivals in the Happy New Year Hurdle over two and a half miles, and so it proved.Conor O´Dwyer´s mount was eased home after the last without being asked a question and was value for much more than the one-length margin over Native Upmanship would suggest.The field went a very steady gallop in the early stages, but the 1-8 favourite travelled with plenty of dash throughout on his first start since recording back-to-back successes in the blue riband at Cheltenham in March.He will now head to Leopardstown for the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle on January 29, where he is likely to face a much sterner examination against the likes of Brave Inca, Feathard Lady and Harchibald.Hughes said: 'I am very happy and he jumped well.'He looked strong, he always carries plenty of weight. Conor was very pleased and we will just keep him at it now until the AIG.'
