Falcon bounces back to form under Prendergast for Hennessy Registering his first success since his famous Coral Cup triumph in 2021, Paul Hennessy struck with Falcon Park in the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. A winner over fences at Wexford in July when in the care of Emmet Mullins, the Arcadio bay had been disappointing since, unseating when last seen at Naas before Christmas. Sent off a 16/1 chance this afternoon, the 80-rated victor was towards rear early, soon improving into mid-division under conditional rider Niall Prendergast. Taking closer order approaching three out and getting to the front before the final flight, the soon to be nine-year-old quickly shot clear, eventually easing to a five and a half length win. Ross O'Sullivan's Bishbashbosh (10/3) finished second under Tom Harney, while That's All (20/1) and Ar Nos Na Gaoithe (11/1) were third and fourth respectively. Returned the 3/1 favourite, Klassman unseated Patrick O'Brien on the approach to the penultimate flight. "If everything lined up on a day for him, there is a day and it all worked out," Hennessy, who trains the winner for his wife Susan, commented. "He gave young Niall a tough fall the last day in Naas. He was making his move and hit a fence hard. Niall was sore for a few days after it. It's a tough game and you heard him saying 'that makes it all worthwhile'. He deserves more opportunities. "I have him since he was a three-year-old and it's wonderful to get a winner." Additional reporting by Alan Magee
