Flashthelights and Gavin Brouder. © Photo Healy Racing
The Noel Kelly trained Flashthelights got a dream passage up the inside rail to run out an easy winner of Division ll of the Ladbrokes Play "1-2-Free" Handicap Hurdle At Punchestown.
Successful for previous connections at Naas back in March 2022, the eight-year-old had hinted that his turn was near when third at Downpatrick for current trainer Noel Kelly back in April.
Obviously at his best on a decent surface, the Leading Light gelding returned to his best when beating a field of 16 rivals here.
Only sixth into the straight, the Gavin Brouder partnered gelding looked booked for minor honours at best, as Papa Barns came through down the outside to lead.
However, a wide gap opened along the inside rail which allowed Brouder a clear passage on Flashthelights, getting to the front before the final flight, going on to win by four-and-a-half lengths from Papa Barns.
Noel Kelly said: “He’s run well a few days since I got him.
“They went quick enough today and the plan was to drop him out and come with a late run. We were hoping they would go too quick and stop and that’s what happened.
“There are plenty of days in him. He’s no superstar but he’s not a bad wee horse.
“They are new owners to the yard and it’s great to have them.
“I’d say we’ll stick to hurdles for a while and he could go back over fences down the line.”
Additional reporting by Alan Magee.
