Highdownhill in command

New Zealand-bred Highdownhill took the 18-runner three mile handicap hurdle at Roscommon for Boots and Slippers Madden in the JP McManus colours.

The imposing seven-year-old son of Montjeu was backed this morning from 11/1 to 6/1 and was returned at 7/1.

He jumped the last in unison with Moving On who was the on course gamble from 7/1 to 9/2 favourite, but had too much for his rival on the run-in and won by three and a half lengths.

Highdownhill had two Sligo hurdle wins to his name last year and was going well when brought down in a two mile Tipperary handicap hurdle in July when last seen out.

Trainer Niall Madden said: “He’ll be kept going in those three mile handicap hurdles.” A Decent Excuse picked up the lead before three out, but couldn’t live with the front two and came home third at 20/1, beaten five and a half lengths. Fellow 20/1 shot Talab completed the placings for each way punters.

(on course reporting by Thomas Weekes)