Kaatskill Nap lands awkwardly over the last© Photo Healy Racing
Kaatskill Nap made the breakthrough on his fourth start over flights, as he made virtually in the Bet With Tote On The Galway Races Maiden Hurdle.
A beaten favourite on his first three attempts over obstacles, the Willie Mullins trained gelding was last seen finishing eighth on his return to action at the Curragh last month.
As short as 10/11 in early shows, the Rip Van Winkle gelding briefly touched 2/1 before going off the 7/4 market leader in the colours of owner Tony Bloom.
Soon in front under Paul Townend, the chestnut seven-year-old had all his rivals off the bridle from two out and despite a sloppy jump at the last, he went on to register a comfortable five and a half length success. The Little Yank (7/2) filled the runner-up spot under Danny Mullins for John Ryan, while Hand In My Pocket (9/4) was another half a length back in third.
Townend said afterwards: "He jumped the first well and we got into a nice rhythm early enough and I was anxious to keep the rhythm going.
"It was a nice performance, he had the benefit of a run on the flat and it helped here, especially with the rain that is after coming. The ground is opening up and the showers are getting into it but it's not bad ground - it is just on the slow side for summer horses."
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
