Makfils wins in style on return

Makfils powered home on the run-in to record a decisive success in the two-mile handicap hurdle at Punchestown.

The Peter Fahey-trained gelding was making his first start since mid-January and went to post a 10/1 shot after his short break.

Jake Coen chased front-runner Hillsdale early on and went after Son Of Hypnos went that rival kicked for home turning in.

Makfils challenged at the last and after a slightly untidy leap there he quickened up smartly on the run-in to post a four-length success. Steps In The Sand stayed on for second.

Coen said:- “He was a career low mark today and off a little bit of a break and he was good.

“I was a bit handier than I wanted to be but one of the fancied ones was in front of me. He travelled away, jumped everywhere, and I had a target to aim at going to the last so it was good.

“He never missed a bit jumping which was a big help. He loved the ground, I was glad to see the rain coming this morning. He had a good run on soft to heavy ground earlier in the year.

“Peter was hopeful, he thought maybe off the break he mightn't be race-fit. I'm delighted to ride a winner for Peter as he's been very good to me since I started riding on the Flat. It's nice to get one over the line for him.

“That's my second winner over hurdles and it's great to get it for him, with how good he's been. I've been trying to get one over the line for a while so it's brilliant.”

Reflecting on the past season he added:- “I've learned a lot this year. A big thanks to Gordon (Elliott) as he's put me up in every big handicap and brought me to all the big festivals. For a lad that had only ridden one winner, he never left me at home.

“Hopefully I can kick on a bit now.”