A runner-up in this race last year, Sylvan Approach (8/1) went one better 12 months on when driven out on the run-in by Ben Dalton to take the two and a half miles Paulstown Maiden Hurdle (division two).
The lightly-raced seven-year-old gelding set down for a protracted battle in the straight with 7/4 favourite Gormanstown Cuckoo and found a bit extra on the run-in for a three quarter length verdict. Ennisnag (20/1) also held every chance two out but faded in the closing stages to finish another five and a half lengths back in third.
Winning trainer Conor O'Dwyer said: “He's had plenty of leg trouble, and the owners have been very patient. I always felt there was a couple of wins in him and thank god he's proved me right. He's a good ground horse and from a good jumping family that includes Feathered Leader. We should have plenty of fun with him now providing he stays sound.”
Alan Magee
