Ash Hill delights O'Brien on hurdle debut

Joseph O'Brien's Ash Hill was the ready winner of the two and a half mile maiden hurdle at Punchestown on his jumping debut.

The five-year-old gelding travelled smoothly as he tracked Robin Des Sivola in the home straight.

He was soon switched out by Davy Russell and took over before the final flight. He popped the last and strode away by seven and a half lengths.

Robin Des Sivola finished second at 6/1 with Behind The Curtain third at 9/2.

Ash Hill had run in three bumpers - winning at Leopardstown over Christmas before finishing unplaced in a Grade Two bumper at the same track when last seen in February.

Joseph O’Brien said: “I’m delighted with him. I thought Davy gave him a lovely ride and he’ll learn loads in amongst horses. He jumped very well for his first run over hurdles.

“He’s a nice novice for the summer and something like Galway would be the obvious route with him. He won well as I thought he’d need the run a little bit.”

The Stewards enquired into possible interference inside the last 100 yards of this race involving Pakens Rock ridden by D.F. O'Regan, placed fifth and Tahan ridden by K. Brogan, placed fourth, where it appeared that Pakens Rock ran short of room. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that Tahan did not improve its finishing position having caused interference, and they therefore made no alteration to the Judge's placings. The Stewards were, however, of the opinion that K. Brogan was in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly, and having considered his record in this regard suspended him for two race days.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee