Dempsey strikes for Elliott

Well-backed Ancient Sands (11s into 7s) wasn't fluent when in pursuit at the last, but 25/1 chance Tempo Mac soon cleared away to land the Grade B Killashee Handicap Hurdle at Punchestown.

Luke Dempsey did the steering on the J P McGovern-owned and Gordon Elliott-trained Tempo Mac, and he eventually crossed the line with four and a half lengths in hand. Automated (5/1 favourite) didn't get the run of the race, also for Elliott, and he ended up in eighth place.

Elliott said of the patiently ridden victor: "It's nice to get a winner early here this week. I've not had a winner for 21 days and at this time of year you start panicking.

"I'd say the better the ground the better he is. We could have a bit of fun on the flat with him. He won snug and is an improving horse."

Elliott credited Tempo Mac's former trainer, Paul Flynn, for recommending his yard when the horse was heading elsewhere for a 'change of scenery.'

P.A.Fahy, trainer of Western Boy reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his charge suffered a cut as a result of falling in this race.

(AM & EM)