Papal Lodge makes the breakthrough over hurdles© Photo Healy Racing
Papal Lodge brought up a short-priced double for Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy with a comprehensive victory in division one of Punchestown's extended two mile maiden hurdle.
The 4/5 favourite kept front-running Mahons Glory well in range and a better jump two out saw him close to within half a length.
Papal Lodge took over from Mahons Glory approaching the final flight and a slick jump enabled him to land full of running. He readily upped the ante to go on by four and a half lengths.
Mahons Glory, the 7/4 second favourite, had to settle for second. He was half a length in front of a staying-on New Society (12/1).
Kennedy said: “He seemed to be the best horse in the race, so I wanted to keep it simple on him. He jumped and travelled great and has done it well.
“Hopefully he can keep improving and there will be more to come from him.
"He's not a slow horse but he races behind the bridle a bit and only does what he has to. He'll be a nice horse over further in time."
Papal Lodge was last seen finishing 15 lengths second behind Echoes In Rain in a maiden hurdle at Naas in December, however, that form was boosted yesterday when Echoes In Rain won a Grade 2 novice hurdle in Naas.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
