Racing:Puyol hit the jackpot in the re-arranged MCR Hurdle to provide owner/trainer John Mulhern with a boost while he recovers from serious illness.
John Cullen brought Puyol to the front at the last fence before managing to hang on by half a length from Tawaagg, who led a team of Willie Mullins’ runners just behind.
C’est Ca was three lengths away in third with Tarkari fourth.
“He’s not ungenuine - he’s just been beaten by better horses,” said Mulhern’s assistant Stephen McCarthy in reference to previous runs without success.
“The strong gallop and big field suited him and he jumped great. The 10st 10lb on his back also suited as he’s not big - there is not much in front of you when you are sitting on him.
“Consistency is his middle name. With that weight on his back he could win another one but I’d say he’ll get a few pounds for that.
“The boss is recovering slowly but surely and this will be a proper tonic for him. He said if he won today he would go novice chasing and that’s the plan.”
Anothercoppercoast put in brave display to land the Leopardstown Handicap Chase in the hands of Shay Barry.
The 7-1 chance was left in the lead five from home and made the best of his way home.
Jayo looked a threat going to the last, but failed to find more on the run-in and was beaten four and a half lengths.
"He's overdue something like that and it was great to have Shay on, that was a bonus," said trainer Paul Roche.
"Mrs Queally (owner) is in South Africa and every time she is away we get a good run.
"Any day you pick up that sort of money is great. We'll look for another handicap like that and the Irish National could also be a possibility."
Roberto Goldback leapt into the picture for the Cheltenham Festival with a smooth victory in the MCR Novice Chase.
William Hill gave Jessica Harrington’s eight-year-old a first show of 25-1 both for the Arkle Trophy and the RSA Chase after he followed up last month’s win over Cousin Vinny in good style.
Robbie Power had him in front before the final fence where a fluent jump sealed victory and the 5-2 shot came home by six lengths from long-time leader Apt Approach.
“Robert was absolutely thrilled with his jumping. He has improved again,” said Emma Harrington, representing her mother who was on a skiing trip.
