Exciting Commander makes it 2 for Elliott at Punchestown

Commander Of Fleet made it two on the day for Gordon Elliott at Punchestown when justifying odds of 1/5 in the Kildare Now Maiden Hurdle. Ben Dundee (Keith Donoghue) earlier impressed for the Cullentra House Stables trainer in the beginners chase, and the Gigginstown House Stud-owned and Davy Russell-ridden Commander Of Fleet made a similarly positive impression.

Unfortunately this event saw the hurdles in the back-straight omitted due to the low-lying sun.

That was hardly of any consequence in the outcome though, as this point-to-point and Goffs Land Rover Bumper winner is clearly a very classy sort.

A bigger horse than his main challenger, Kalum River (7/2), Commander Of Fleet took over in the straight.

He wandered a bit from before the last, where Kalum River made a mistake, and six lengths separated them at the line.

“That was great and a lovely start,” said Russell.

“He's childish in his ways and these are only just steps along the way.

“Where he'll end up, God only knows, but he's a nice horse today anyway.

“It was ideal as we went a reasonable gallop and he picked up well off it.

Regarding trip he added:- “He's versatile I'd say. Obviously connections have other horses to be thinking of too. It's great to have the choice with him.”

(GC & EM)