Hardy Eustace impresses at Punchestown

Hardy Eustace got a terrific reception at Punchestown this afternoon after the winning the feature race of the day, The Maplewood Developments Hurdle under Paddy Flood.

Winning trainer Dessie Hughes said afterwards, "I'm very happy with that, he's as good as ever. He finished sore and lame after The Stayers Hurdle but we knew he was back to himself as he has been looking very well recently and has been working well at home. Paddy [Flood] said he blew up before the run-in so he should improve from the run. We will probably go for the Hattons Grace with him next."

Flood said afterwards, "He was dream ride and it means so much to me to get the chance to ride him as I've been around the horse since he was a breaker and I used to watch my good friend Kieran [Kelly] ride him. Today means a lot."