Punch Bag and Andrew Lynch jump the last © Photo Healy Racing
< Punch Bag initiated a treble for Andrew Lynch when making a successful jumping debut in the Pick6 Races 1 To 6 Maiden Hurdle at Tramore.
The four-year-old was no great shakes as a juvenile for Jim Bolger but had shown more in handicaps for current trainer Brendan Duke, although he hadn't been sighted since running down the field at Gowran Park last summer.
He wasn't without support, though, and after coming through to lead two out, kept going to beat Poker Gold by five lengths as an 11-2 shot.
Lynch followed up by steering Master Appeal home in front in the Bet Online At thetote.com Maiden Hurdle.
John Kiely's gelding showed improved form when second at Clonmel at the start of the month so it was no surprise that he was sent off the 6-4 favourite to go one better.
He jumped the final obstacle in front, with Patsio hot on his heels, and pulled out plenty for Lynch to prevail by two and a half lengths.
The treble looked to be on when Don Franco jumped the final flight in the Tote Jackpot Races 3 To 6 Handicap Hurdle with a slight advantage.
He was a willing partner for Lynch, but was just denied in the dying strides by the Ray Hackett-trained Phil The Flyer who bounced back to form at 14-1.
Lynch only had to wait until the next race to complete his treble courtesy of Miss Peacetime (6-1) in the Mobile Betting At thetote.com Handicap Hurdle.
Henry de Bromhead's mare was always travelling well close to the pace and had enough in reserve to repel Rebel Cry by half a length.< Halls Bridge (10-1) had struggled since a Wexford win in November, but the assessor has shown him some respite and he capitalised by landing the Best Price Guarantee At thetote.com Handicap Chase.
