Front-running tactics pay off again as Comeonarchie wins finale Similar to the first division of the same race just over 35-minutes earlier, it was a longstanding maiden in Comeonarchie that make virtually all to take Division ll of the Matchbook Best Odds On Festive Racing Handicap Hurdle at Punchestown. Runner-up in the same race off 5lb higher last year, the eight-year-old gelding went one better on this occasion under jockey Jack Martin. Strongly pressed by market leader County Champs early in the straight, the 13/2 chance kept on well to score by four-and-a-half lengths. Trainer Finbarr Hand said: “I’m delighted for the man on his back, he’s a real good rider. He rides out for me all the time. “This horse has been an enigma. He was second here twice last year but he’s had a lot of problems. “He’s just come good in the last two weeks. The cheekpieces helped, Jack said. “Jack gave him a beautiful ride and set lovely fractions in front. He didn’t want any muck in his face and it worked out perfect.” Additional reporting by Gary Carson.
