Paper Lantern gains first racecourse win

Paper Lantern gained an overdue first racecourse winner at Fairyhouse today, landing the Irish Grand National April 17th Handicap Chase for trainer Karl Thornton and jockey Donagh Meyler.

The son of Oscar won his only point to point start in February 2015 but before today, had failed to win in 15 racecourse starts, three of which were when the well backed favourite.

Today Meyler produced the winner to lead on the run-in and the pair earned a hard-fought neck win over Tulpar

Afterwards Thornton stated “he stuck at it well and didn't want to be second again! He seemed to love the ground and the big galloping track.

“He's had bits of problems and we gave him a break and he's in again at Thurles on Thursday and will either go there, or for an opportunity race at Leopardstown in March."

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Alan Magee