Pipers Meadow leads on the run-in© Photo Healy Racing
Pipers Meadow found plenty for pressure to stay on best in the second division of the Longhouse Maiden Hurdle in Punchestown.
The 18/1 shot began to make his move in fifth after the third last. He was pushed along in fourth after the next hurdle and tacked onto the back of the leaders sweeping around the home bend.
The grey gelding improved into third with a quarter of a mile to travel and made sustained headway to get on terms with Gloire D'athon at the last.
He jumped it the better and landed full or running as he was ridden out to win by a length and a half. Tucson Train put in good late work for second at 6/1 by a length and a half from Gloire D'athon (10/3). Captain Kangaroo the even-money favourite, had no answers in fourth.
Trainer Stephen Ryan said: “We think an awful lot of him. He ran a cracking race in a bumper and got a bit jarred after it.
“We had to mind him and he had a smashing run over hurdles just over a fortnight ago. Everyone that rides him loves him.
“Kevin Brouder would have ridden him but he got injured. The owner passed away a few weeks ago so he must be doing big things for us.
“He could be a very nice horse in time. We’ll take baby steps and see what happens. Sean (O'Keeffe) said he saw it out well and he could go a bit further.”
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
