Party Central holds on from her stablemate Gordon Elliott's Party Central just about fended off fast-finishing stablemate Humble Glory at the end of an extended two miles three in the Listed mares' novices' hurdle at Punchestown. The 3/1 shot coasted along in front under Davy Russell as she drew clear of her rivals, however, she tied up on the run-in as Humble Glory picked up the chase. Party Central was all out in the closing stages but prevailed by an ever-diminishing head. Runner-up Humble Glory emerged with plenty of credit from this effort at 8/1. Elliott said: “She’s a good mare. I’d say if Davy (Russell) had his time back he’d have waited a bit longer. “He said she shocked him as she leapt on the bridle when he gave her a squeeze three out. “She was lame after the last day and it’s nice to get her head back in front. “The Mares Novice Hurdle at Cheltenham is the main aim and she will probably have one more run before that. “Humble Glory ran well and gets some black type so everyone is happy.” The Stewards interviewed D.N. Russell, rider of Party Central, concerning his use of the whip in latter stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned who accepted he had used his whip excessively and apologised for his actions. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were satisfied that D.N. Russell was in breach of R10.3(g)(frequency) and having considered his record, they suspended him for one raceday. Justice Leonie Reynolds absented herself from this enquiry. Party Central was cut to 12/1 from 40/1 with Betfair and Paddy Power for the Mares' Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham. BoyleSports made her 16/1 from 40/1. This gave Elliott an across-the-card treble as Top Bandit took the opener in Punchestown and Iberique Du Seuil did the same at Cork. This followed on from seven winners he saddled in Navan yesterday. Additional reporting by Alan Magee
