Touch trained for Punchestown and delivers

The Grade 1 Herald Champion Novice Hurdle saw Don't Touch It spring a 16/1 surprise, beating Petit Mouchoir by half a length to complete an opening race double at Punchestown for J P McManus.

Four to nine chance Yorkhill lost his unbeaten record, jumping to his left, after being held up through the two miler.

He was soon done with after a mistake at the second last, and ended up a well held fourth.

Up front meanwhile, the Barry Geraghty-ridden Don't Touch It travelled best in the straight, but he opened the door for the rest when not fluent at the last after idling.

The rallying Petit Mouchoir got back to the front on the run-in. Don’t Touch It hails from the tremendously in-form Jessica Harrington-yard though, and he fought back for success.

There was four and a half lengths back to Brain Power in third.

"I always felt that better ground would bring out the best in him. He got bogged down the last day, and had to miss an intended engagement at Fairyhouse with an infection in his leg. We trained him for here, and he's done us proud," stated Mrs Harrington.

"It's great when the horses are running well, and it can be infectious for the whole yard.

"That was a hell of a step up as he'd only won a maiden hurdle. He jumped great off that ground. They went fast in front but he cruised into it and Barry said he got lairy in front but then went on again when the other horse came to him."

The McManus colours were carried to victory in the opening Ladies Cup by the Nina Carberry-ridden Wish Ye Didn't (trained by Enda Bolger).

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Yorkhill, trained by W.P. Mullins, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be Post Race Normal.

(AM & EM)