Scholastic opens jumping account in style

Scholastic gained a deserved success over jumps when running out a convincing winner of the EMS Copiers 3-Y-O Maiden Hurdle at Punchestown.

The Joseph O'Brien-trained filly had been narrowly denied on her last outing at Listowel and gained compensation under JJ Slevin.

She hit the front over the second last in the two-miler and kicked a few lengths clear turning for home. Jeff Kidder gave chase in the closing stages but never looked like getting on terms as Scholastic recorded a six-and-a-half length success.

“She deserved it as she had been running well,” said assistant Brendan Powell.

“Her run the other day in Listowel was good and she looked like she was going to get there. JJ said she got her head in front but the other one came back.

“Jumping is the name of the game and she was the one in the race that jumped better than anything else.

“I don't think he wanted to take it up when he did but he's done the right thing as they went slow.

“She's actually got a little bit of boot as well and she's got a few lengths on them jumping a couple so he did the right thing.

“She's won with her ears pricked and hopefully she can go and win again.”