Action Plan quickly 'redeems himself' after Cork disappointment

Turned out quickly after finishing fourth when favourite at Cork on Sunday, Action Plan made the breakthrough over flights in the opener at Punchestown, the William Hill Proper Betting 3yo Hurdle.

Reversing Ballinrobe form with Solar Drive the Ger O'Leary-trained bay was sent off a 9/4 chance under Jack Kennedy for the Purosangue Racing Syndicate.

Racing mainly in fourth, he took closer order from three out and came with his challenge before the last.

Soon getting to the front, the Soldier's Call gelding kept on well when ridden on the run-in, coming home a length and three quarters clear of the front-running Solar Drive.

The runner-up was returned a 5/2 chance, while well-backed hurdling debutant Slurricane (5/4f from 9/4 early) was another three and a half lengths away in third.

"He had an off day in Cork. The pace was probably too steady, and he was looking around him and not as professional as he should have been," O'Leary commented.

"Today dropped in, his ears were pricked, and he was jumping great. He redeemed himself thankfully.

"The three-year-old races are not the strongest at this time of year and we've no plans really."

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Infatuator trained by R.Donohoe, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be clinically abnormal post race.

R. Deegan, rider of Infatuator, trained by R.Donohoe, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount never travelled.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee