Puturhandstogether steps forward to land maiden success

Third on his initial outing over flights at Punchestown last month, the Joseph O'Brien trained Puturhandstogether took a significant step forward when running out a ready winner of the opening Bar One Racing "Bet 10 Euros Get 50 Euros Sign Up Offer" 3-Y-O Maiden Hurdle at Cork.

An 84-rated handicapper on the Flat, the gelding jumped much more fluently on this second start over flights, always travelling well within himself.

Mark Walsh had the perfect box seat position throughout the race, edging closer to dispute alongside Turn And Finish and Lakota Blue early in the straight.

Leading two out, the 4/1 chance kept on strongly under Walsh to record a comfortable one-and-a-quarter length success over stablemate Turn And Finish.

Joseph O'Brien said: "He had a nice run in Punchestown and jumped well today. He quickened up well, Mark was very happy with him although he was green in front.

"He came on from his first run so I hope he'll improve again. His jumping was sharper as he made a few little mistakes in Punchestown and was nice today.

"I haven't really thought beyond today but don't think he'll go into a graded race."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes.