Charlie Luciano not for passing in Downpatrick

Charlie Luciano made most to take the honours for Noel Meade in the Dunlop Homes Rated Novice Hurdle at Downpatrick.

The four-year-old gelding was successful in a Kilbeggan maiden hurdle in April and doubled his tally over this extended 2m1f.

He picked up the lead before the second flight and Liam McKenna dictated from there.

The pair looked to have a scrap on their hands when 5/4 favourite Sequoiaspirit and Daniel King travelled strongly into contention at the final flight.

However, Charlie Luciano got away from it well and had that rival beaten in the closing stages as he went on by a length and a-quarter.

McKenna said: "He enjoyed it being out in front going his own fractions.

"When the other horse (Sequoiaspirit) came to me, he picked up and was doing enough.

"He felt like a horse that didn't have a run today (ran on the Flat in Leopardstown on Thursday), he was quite fresh going down to the first and was a bit gassy and keen. Then when he got his head in front, he settled away.

"I'd say he just loves jumping, he jumps and travels. I'd say that suits him out there.

"There should be a bit more there. He wasn't stopping hitting the line, so yeah he will (get a bit further)."