Jack The Hat (nearest) tackles Kilmurry Kid © Photo Healy Racing
Jack The Hat wore down front-runner Kilmurry Kid to claim the two-and-a-half mile handicap chase at Punchestown this afternoon.
Kilmurry Kid made a bold bid from the front but gave way on the run-in as Sean Flanagan drove Jack The Hat to a two-length victory.
The 10/1 winner, having his first start for trainer Liz Doyle, was settled behind the leaders before travelling well to challenge two from home.
Kimurry Kid proved a tough adversary but couldn't find anymore when headed in the closing stages. Carlanstown was sent off the 5/2 favourite but crashed out at the fourth last, bringing down Close Review
“He's one of those horses that seems to have improved for a change of scenery,” said the trainer's partner Barry Murphy afterwards.
“He travelled great and jumped great. Sean gave him a lovely ride, he just held on to him until the run-in as he doesn't do a whole lot in front.”
(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)
