Timely win for Hogan's Oscar

Cool Oscar was lively in the betting this morning for the Tote Sports Lounge Handicap Hurdle. On the track at Punchestown that market support continued (12s into 9s) and the David Splaine (his second winner in as many days) ridden now three time winner got the money for his backers with a four length success.

The Paddy Hogan owned and trained Oscar gelding ultimately beat Back To Drumdeel by four lengths after getting a waiting ride from Splaine. Well-backed favourite Knocklayde Vic could manage no better than sixth position.

Templemore-based Hogan disclosed: "All the jockeys that have been riding him have been telling me that he wanted three miles. I knew too that he was in good form coming here today.

"He'll probably go over fences now. I only have two in training and the other one (Ballyine) runs in the bumper.

"The young lad that rides him (Thomas Brett) is still going to school.

"My wife, Winifred is in hospital. She's battling cancer and this will be a bit of a lift for her." (AM & EM)