Soldier's stamina wins the day

Ruby Walsh conjured a well-timed run from Tin Soldier going to the last to land the At The Races Michael Purcell Memorial Novice Hurdle at Thurles.

Market rivals Champagne Classic and Moulin A Vent looked set to battle it out turning for home in the two-and-a-half mile Grade 3 prize.

Tin Soldier, who had come off the bridle after the fourth last and was under pressure in fourth turning in, worked his way into contention going to the last, however.

Willie Mullins' charge, a 100/30 shot, jumped to the lead over the final flight and kept on well in the closing stages for a length success.

15/8 favourite Moulin A Vent filled the runner-up spot while 9/4 shot Champagne Classic faded, seven lengths back in third.

The winner had also beaten Champagne Classic when taking his maiden on his Irish debut at Fairyhouse last month.

"He is making good progress and while he made heavy weather of it, once Ruby made up his mind for him he made nice progress,” said Mullins

"We'll stick in the staying division.

"I don't think any horse is happy on that ground today - it's tough to race on. He's a horse who never shows me much at home but he obviously has a lot more in the locker than he lets on to have. But I like horses who improve unexpectedly and he's one of those.

"He wants a trip and 2m4f is as short as he wants - he seems to go on that ground but maybe he wants it better. I'll probably keep him at home and look for a staying novice."

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)