The David Trundley Artist At Punchestown Maiden Hurdle lived up to its appearance beforehand of a match when Gunnery Sergeant got the better of market rival Kolumbus

A big field of 21 faced the starter in this two miles event but the two market principals dominated throughout.

The pair were well clear when 5/4 favourite Kolumbus made a mistake two out, and Gunnery Sergeant soon took over in front.

Sean Flanagan ’s mount wandered about a bit on the run-in but the 13/8 chance had plenty in reserve to beat the favourite by four and a half lengths. Agent Boru finished well to get within a length further back in third.

Winning trainer Noel Meade said, “He deserved that. He got a nice lead and jumped very well. He was a bit unlucky at Christmas when he made a mistake at the last. He was trying to give the winner 14lb which is quite a task in very heavy ground.

“I’m not sure if he actually needs it as heavy as that at all. I would say he needs a bit further but he was leery in front. We’ll go on and try and win another one with him.

“I’d say they went very quick. Tom Mullins was standing beside me and said ‘these two will stop. They have to as everybody else is off the bridle the whole way so they have to stop’. He won so that was the main job today.

“I’d say better ground might help as he won his bumper on goodish ground. He was travelling well when falling in Gowran and then ran in a Grade One. He ran too free the first day back at Fairyhouse when he was running away the whole way. Then he just got touched off in Limerick and won today. He’s alright and hopefully will keep going on.”

(GC & AM)