Gun leads home one two for O'Brien in Punchestown opener

Joseph O’Brien landed a one two in the Tote Supporting Irish Racing Since 1930 Beginners Chase with Smoking Gun (5s into 7/2) leading home Early Doors (9/4 favourite) at Punchestown. Small Farm and Discordantly were disputing the lead when falling independently at the second last.

Early Doors was badly hampered here and in the end four lengths split them.

Gigginstown House Stud own the J J Slevin-ridden Smoking Gun, and they also have the third placer, Eurobot

“He jumped well and stayed well. It’s nice to get his head in front and JJ said the one thing he does do is stay," said stable representative Brendan Powell.

“The second horse has run well. He got hampered at the second last which didn’t help but whether he’d have got him I don’t know. Mark (Walsh) said he was happy with him.”

(AM & EM)