Idas Boy back in action with a victory

Idas Boy overcame an absence of just over a year to forge home in the Ryans Cleaning Handicap Chase at Punchestown.

This was his handicap debut and he took to it in good style.

The nine-year-old gelding got the measure of Mars Harper racing to the final fence in this extended 2m5f assignment and was driven out by Sam Ewing to score by three lengths at 7/1.

Mars Harper had to settle for second at 15/2 and was two and a-half lengths in front of Coqolino (9/1).

Trainer Noel Meade said: “We were going to run him in Wexford last week, but the ground was very heavy and he definitely likes a little bit better ground.

“He was going to be a nice horse last year but had a setback and was out for the season.

“He was working well and was ready for a run. He’s in the Paddy Power at Christmas so we’ll have to see after that.

“Sam has a great pair of hands and is a very talented young lad. He might be light but he’s very strong.”

Ewing added: "Brilliant! He has been off a long time and he was entered in a couple of races last week and things didn't go right.

"Obviously, a blessing in disguise for today. He did it really well.

"He's brilliant to jump in tight, loads of scope, travelled really well today and loved that ground.

"It is great to be able to get on him.

"He probably only does what he has to until you really go for him. I wanted to save a bit until after the last and he stayed galloping to the line well."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee