Its Bilbo off the mark on Irish debut

French-import Its Bilbo got favourite backers off to a winning start in the opening race of Punchestown's Winter Festival.

He was sighted once in his home country when finishing fourth in a hurdle contest at Compiegne and punters were keen on his chances for this three-year-old maiden hurdle over an extended two-miles as he went off 7/4 favourite. Out For A Stroll took over from long-time leader Game Phoenix three out and attempted to make the best way home rounding the home turn.

Its Bilbo was creeping into contention, though, and he stayed on for Darragh O'Keeffe to challenge over the last.

He jumped it better than Out For A Stroll, but soon three horses were almost abreast inside the final furlong with Slurricane poking his nose in between the aforementioned pair. Lakota Blue also got a scent of victory in fourth as he began to roll home in the closing stages.

O'Keeffe got after Its Bilbo and he finished best of all to score by three-quarters of a length from a closing Lakota Blue (12/1). Slurricane was another two and a quarter lengths back in third at 7/2.

Henry de Bromhead said: “Danny Cooper recommended him from France and liked his run back in the spring.

“He’s a fine big horse and hopefully will continue to improve. We won’t be in any mad panic this year and it’s lovely to have Matt (Fitzgerald, owner) here and winning.

“Darragh said he was a bit green, but he responded when he asked him.

“We might look at Leopardstown at Christmas and will give him a few runs to see where we are.”

Paddy Power gave Its Bilbo a first show of 33/1 for the Triumph Hurdle.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee