Mares Hurdle target for Meri after Quevega win Meri Devie got back to winning ways when running out a cosy winner of the Listed Quevega Mares Hurdle at Punchestown today. The French-bred was recording a quick double on the card for trainer Willie Mullins and his nephew David, in the saddle. The 5/4 favourite tracked leader Alighting in the two-and-a-half mile contest before jumping up to lead five from home. Market rival Alletrix improved to dispute over the third last but Meri Devie showed a good turn of foot turning for home to take the advantage. The winner flicked through the last but galloped on strongly in the closing stages to seal matters and David Mullins could afford to ease up close home for a five length verdict. The winner had finished fifth behind Alletrix in handicap company at the Dublin racing festival last time but was 21lb better off at the weights today. "I thought she was well-in there and she jumped well. She got a nice lead the whole way and when push came to shove she produced the little bit of class that we think she might have,” said Mullins. "We're very happy with that and can look forward to bringing her over for the Mares Hurdle. Two and a half miles is no problem to her, and as the season goes on she can go up in trip." (Quotes by Alan Magee)
