Hobson too hot to handle

Thomas Hobson proved too hot to handle for his rivals as he ran out a cosy all-the-way winner of the conditions hurdle at Punchestown.

Ruby Walsh bounced out in front on the 6/5 shot but he was tackled by market leader Jetstream Jack turning for home in the two-and-a-half mile contest.

Willie Mullins charge found another gear to assert going to the final flight and Walsh could afford to ease down close home for a two-and-three-quarter length victory over the 9/10 favourite.

Jetstream Jack had been well backed this morning from 6/4 into 8/11 favourite and despite drifting on course still went to post a shade of odds on.

Thomas Hobson had chased home Three Stars in Grade Three company at Navan last month and was stepping up in trip for the first time today.

"His jumping is improving but it can improve more,” said Mullins.

“He will be better on better ground. Unless his jumping improves a good bit he could go back on the flat. The trip seemed to be no trouble to him.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)