Identity Thief makes it two from two

Identity Thief made it two from two as he took the opener on day three of the Leopardstown Christmas Festival, the At The Races Maiden Hurdle.

The Henry De Bromhead trained gelding was a surprise 25/1 winner of a bumper at Fairyhouse on his debut last month and he was sent off the 7/4 second favourite on his first start over hurdles this afternoon.

Having raced mainly in third under Bryan Cooper he came with his challenge in the straight and hit the front before the last.

He was then ridden out on the run-in to see off the challenge of 6/4 favourite Snow Falcon by half a length.

The front duo went eight lengths clear of Okotoks who had to settle for third under Ruby Walsh for Tony Martin at 8/1.

Henry De Bromhead said afterwards: "I'm delighted. He jumped well.

"Bryan thought maybe a faster pace would suit him and we might drop him back and try the Deloitte here in February. We'll see how he goes after that.

"He was impressive in his bumper and kept the dream alive here today. He's a really nice young horse to have.

"The ground was pretty nice when he won his bumper and I'd say he pretty adaptable.

"Bryan said he didn't really want him winging the second last and getting there too soon so when he fluffed it he got a nice lead into the straight."

Additional reporting by Gary Carson