Hasten Slowly clears the last under Alex Harvey© Photo Healy Racing
Hasten Slowly (10/1) made it two from four over flights, as she led from pillar to post in the Punchestown Premiere Weekend 23rd & 24th November Mares Handicap Hurdle.
A four time winner on the level, the John McConnell-trained four-year-old made the breakthrough on her third start over flights at Tramore in August.
Making her debut in handicap company this afternoon, the Kessaar bay proved game from the front under Alex Harvey.
Pushed along approaching the straight, she was ridden on the run to the last and a good jump there proved crucial, as she held off the fast finishing Vischio by half a length.
The runner-up was returned a 13/2 chance under Danny Mullins for Dick Donohoe, while Cash The Cheque (8/1) was just three quarters of a length away in third.
Returned the 5/2 joint favourites, Ta Na La and First Dare finished fourth and sixth respectively.
"She's taken to hurdles really well. We pulled her out of the Lartigue because of the ground and I wish I'd left her in it now!" McConnell reflected.
"She wouldn't go on winter ground and will probably get a break now and come back in the spring.
"We got her out of a claimer this time last year and she's won four for us. She's a little dinger.
"Alex gave her a very good ride from the front, quickened at the right time and got that jump at the last."
STEWARDS REPORTS
J.W. Kennedy, rider of Timeless Piece trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount pulled up lame. The IHRB Veterinary Officer subsequently reported that this horse was found to be injured post race.
The Raceday Stewards reviewed an incident on the turn into the straight involving Hasten Slowly, ridden by A. Harvey, where it appeared he clipped the running rail. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards were satisfied that no further action was warranted.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
