Purcell back in winners enclosure with Catch

You Can't Catch Me proved a welcome winner for trainer Kieran Purcell when claiming the Giantsgrave Handicap Hurdle at Clonmel.

The Kilkenny handler's last visit to the winners enclosure was almost two years ago when Maigh Dara scored at Downpatrick in late September 2013.

Paddy Mangan hit the front turning for home on the 8/1 shot and he galloped on strongly in the closing stages to record a two-and-a-quarter length victory.

11/2 joint favourites Cloudy Morning and Emmy Lou were second and third.

You Can't Catch Me was turning around Kilbeggan form with the mark leaders having been fifth behind the pair when they had also been second and third to Rock On Rosie last month.

"That was badly wanted!," said Purcell afterwards.

"He promises more at home than he shows on the track but that was nice and he'll go for something similar at Listowel next. He is a great jumper."

The three-time All-Ireland hurling winner with Kilkenny was then asked "will it be as easy on Sunday (Kilkenny v Galway)" and quipped "it'll be easier!"

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)