Tough Hardy Eustace keeps Rooster at bay

ANYONE who doubted the quality of Hardy Eustace had their answer at Punchestown yesterday.

Dessie Hughes’ charge displayed all his renowned fighting spirit to confirm Cheltenham form with the grey, Rooster Booster, in, arguably, the race of the week, the Emo Oil Champion Hurdle.

Hardy Eustace beat Rooster Booster by five lengths in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, but Philip Hobbs’ gelding was best for money in the ring to reverse placings.