Mullins has Hobson back in winning form

"It's a surprise with that weight over that trip," suggested Willie Mullins after his Thomas Hobson went in at odds of 7/1 (from 10s) under Ruby Walsh in the Grade A Glascarn Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Several still shaped well on the run to the penultimate flight in this two miler, but there was no living with Thomas Hobson at the business end and he eventually eclipsed Veinard by three lengths.

"I think he wants a longer trip and I'd like to step up in trip next time," further explained Mullins.

"I took a chance running him for the prize-money and it paid off. I'd imagine he'll take his chance in the nice two-and-a-half mile handicap at Punchestown.

"I'd be looking at a Flat career for him during the summer as well. We've never run him on the Flat and I think he'll be alright over a trip on the Flat as well."

B.J. Cooper, rider of Woods Well trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was badly hampered by a faller at the third last hurdle.

D.N. Russell, rider of Conrad Hastings trained by Henry de Bromhead, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was brought to a standstill when badly hampered by a faller at the third last hurdle.

(GC & EM)