Swift on the mark for Hughes

The Motivate Challenge Supported by Failte Ireland Hurdle was won by the Dessie Hughes trained Swiftmarc under a fine ride by Roger Loughran.

Loughran produced the 20/1 shot with a well timed run to lead after two out and the duo kept at it well to score by a convincing two and a half lengths.

A delighted Hughes said afterwards: “This lad had some good form with Colm Murphy but he lost his way a little.”

“He seems to be back to himself and he’s a nice horse, we will probably go back over fences with him as he looks like a chasing type.”