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Punchestown 2024
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Grimshaw impresses for Lambe
Golden Grimshaw ran out a convincing winner of the conditions hurdle at Down Royal for Dungannon trainer James Lambe.
Barry Geraghty hit the front at the second last, on the 7/2 shot, and he surged clear before the last.
He could afford to ease down in the closing stages to record a six-length win over long-time leader Baracas
The 7/4 favourite was not helped by a mistake three out and he had no answer when headed by the winner.
2/1 second choice Tijuana Dancer failed to pick up after travelling well for much of the contest and was half-a-length back in third.
"I was a little bit concerned about the trip as he won over 2m2f at Downpatrick and was placed over 2m4f at Sligo," said Lambe afterwards.
"He was a bit unlucky at Sligo as he missed the second last and last. He might not have won be he would have been closer.
"I quietly fancied him here today but was afraid of Baracas and of Tony (Martin) and Ruby's horse (Tijuana Dancer).
"He's not a bad horse. He won on the Flat for Barry Hills and also won up the Curragh.
"Barry (Geraghty) thought he could be competitive in a novice hurdle or a high grade handicap off a low weight. We'll look at Listowel but there are no plans."
Lambe used to be a regular visitor to England with his horses but has cut back on trips after "finding it hard to make it pay":-
"I could probably win as much money for one race here as winning three in England.
"I'm staying at home in Ireland and hopefully I can reach double figures. I've no real intention of going to England as the prize money is not good enough.
"If I have a horse that can earn me money at home I'll stay here."