Powerful display from 'exciting' Alpha male

Owner Michael O'Leary (through his Gigginstown House Stud) and retained jockey Bryan Cooper combined for a double at Punchestown today, completing the feat in the Visit www.punchestown.com For All Offers Maiden Hurdle on the Mouse Morris trained Alpha Des Obeaux

The winner was heavily backed all day having opened at 2/1 in the morning before returning the 8/11 favourite and in the end justified that confidence in recording an easy eight and a half lengths win over Altiepix

Winning trainer Mouse Morris later stated “he'll make into a nice horse but is still a baby.

“He took his time to quicken but when he did, he did it well. The penny has to drop with him yet though.

“He'll keep me going for next season but I've no plans with him although he's an exciting one to have.”

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson