Street Runner follows up twelve months on

The Karl Thornton trained Street Runner took the Pepsico Handicap Hurdle, following up on his win in this race twelve months ago.

The seven-year-old son of Rainbow Quest had been a bit disappointing since his win last year, however he hinted at a return to former at Bellewstown recently, finishing a close up fifth to Courtncatcher.

Ridden by Eddie O’Connell, the bay gelding was 10/1 this morning with Paddy Power, opening on-course at 7/1 before going off at 13/2.

He travelled best approaching the third last, hitting the front after that flight, keeping on well under pressure on the run-in to score by two and three parts of a length. Corr Point finished second under Paul Townend for Colm Murphy at 6/1, while Carmels Boy who went from 5/1 to 7/2 favourite on-course, finished half a length back in fourth under Shane Hassett for Neil McKnight.

Karl Thornton said afterwards: "My dad owns him. My horses have been busy and consistent but haven't been getting their heads in front.

"He had problems after Christmas - problems with his pelvis. Today was the plan. He likes it here.

"I've four in training and am based in Skerries, Co Dublin."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham