Meade gets one on the board J P McManus' tenth winner of Punchestown 2016 came about in the K Club Hotel, Spa & Ryder Cup Venue (Pro/Am) Flat Race as Noel Meade sent out 13/8 favourite Stretchingthetruth to gain the day under Nina Carberry. A point-to-point winner for Nicky Stokes at Dromahane back in November, the Gold Well gelding came through from mid-division to deliver his challenge after his stable companion Rathnure Rebel had been left in a clear pace-setting role early. Stretchingthetruth ultimately led over a furlong out for an easy six and a half length win over Miss Tynte. Meade said afterwards: "Things have not been flowing for us all week but it's great to get a winner. He's a nice horse, and will be let off now and go hurdling next season." On his Gold cup faller, Road To Riches, Meade reported: "He's sore and feeling sorry for himself. He took some pearler of a fall and hopefully it looks like he's just stiff and sore. I'm not sure what plans are. The Galway Plate has been mentioned but we'll have to see." The Stewards enquired into the fall of Mai Fitzs Jack, ridden by Miss S. O'Brien having failed to negotiate the bend past the stands. Miss S. O'Brien reported to the Stewards that her mount cocked his jaw, ran off the track and unseated her. (AM & EM)
