Napper Tandy beats jolly to open account over hurdles

The Matthew Smith trained Napper Tandy proved too strong for hot favourite Icare Desbois when opening his account over flights in the Ladbrokes "We Play Together" Novice Hurdle at Punchestown.

Twice successful on the all-weather when trained in Britain, the six-year-old had shown promise on his previous five starts over hurdles but looked to face a stiff test here in this winners' race.

Sent straight to the front from flag fall by jockey James Smith, the gelding jumped and travelled well in the main, holding a couple of lengths advantage over the Willie Mullins trained Icare Desbois for much of the contest.

The latter closed up after two out, looking a serious threat when looming up to dispute on the run to the last. Despite making a mistake at that final obstacle, Napper Tandy was quicker away, finding plenty for pressure to stay on for a two length success.

Matt Smith said: “It suited him going on in front and he toughed it out well. His jumping was better as well.

“He won from the front on the Flat in England. He’s a big horse and it probably just took a couple of runs as he takes plenty of work. The galloping track also suited him.

“He’ll keep going for the summer and we’ll probably look at a Flat race as well for him.

“It was a good ride by James and I’m delighted for Ray (Stokes, owner).”

Additional reporting by Alan Magee.