Smooth success for The Game Changer

The Game Changer (4/1) motored into contention on a tight rein and was pushed out by Davy Russell to score in the two mile novice hurdle at Punchestown. Aonvarr and Clonard Lad cut out the running in unison, but as the field took the final turn coming to the last flight The Game Changer was full of running.

Russell brought The Game Changer alongside Clonard Lad upon jumping the last and the pair weren’t extended in hitting the line two and a quarter lengths ahead of Clonard Lad (11/4f). Gilgamboa at 8/1 took third.

Successful trainer Charlie Swan said: “It was a bit of a messy race the last day and they didn’t go much of a gallop. He’s a half brother to Johns Spirit [won the Grade 3 Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase in Cheltenham last month for Jonjo O’Neill] and he’s a bit like him in that he doesn’t like being in front too long.

“Even at home he can be a bit of a character if in front too long. I’m not sure where he’ll go next, but we’ll probably have to step him up to graded class now.”

This was The Game Changer’s third win from five outings. He had previously won a bumper and a maiden hurdle in Cork previously.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee