Clopf as low as 16/1 for Champion Hurdle despite workmanlike win

Clopf justified favouritism in the vcbet.com Hurdle at Punchestown yesterday, but had to work ever so hard under Barry Geraghty to land the wagers, writes Pat Keane.

He certainly looked in real trouble approaching the straight, as trail-blazing Rindoon continued to scorch away in front. But they had gone very fast and, one supposes, it was inevitable the pace had to slacken at some stage.

Gradually, Clopf began to close, was right in the mix at the last and then forged away on the level to beat Rindoon a length and a half.