3 up for Sam

There's simply no stopping Oscar Sam right now and the Cooper Family Syndicate owned six-year-old made it three from three since joining Jessica Harrington when landing the Buy Your Tickets Online At www.punchestown.com Handicap Hurdle.

An 11/8 market-leader on this occasion the Robbie Power ridden Oscar Sam tightened his grip on the two and a half miler from the second last. Ultimately he had four lengths and a head in hand over Pass The Hat and After Aspen

"He will come back here for the Pertemps Qualifier (on January 31). I'm keeping his runs spaced out," explained the successful handler.

"He was very good and jumped great. I'd like to go to Cheltenham if we can get him high enough. He will get another few pounds for this but I think he will probably have to win again to get a run at Cheltenham."

Tony McCoy of course partnered Jezki to some important wins for Mrs Harrington and on his knighthood she said: "I think it's absolutely fantastic. It's great for someone in racing and in the public eye to get the honour. It's very much deserved."

A. Ring, rider of Divine Rhapsody trained by P.J. Rothwell, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was pulled up having gone lame in running.

(AM & EM)