Federici on course for Punchestown

Federici proved himself on course for next week’s Punchestown Festival when coasting to an emphatic victory in the Next racing At Fairyhouse June 2nd Handicap Hurdle in Fairyhouse yesterday.

Winner of the Ulster National in Downpatrick last time, the 13/8 favourite travelled strongly for Adrian Heskin throughout the race and saw off Incitatum by three and three-quarter lengths, without having a hard race.

Winning trainer Enda Bolger said: “That was a nice pipe-opener for the (CME Auctioneers) Cross-Country Chase on the Saturday of Punchestown – he was second to Josie’s Orders in the race last year – and he’ll be given an entry again.