Express steams in for Pierse Hurdle
Dromlease Express benefited from a patient Johnny Allen ride to land the Pierse Hurdle at Leopardstown today.
The 6-1 joint-favourite was held up at the rear of the 19-runner field by the 7lb claimer, as Larkhill Jo cut out the running at a good pace in the €130,000 contest.
On the run to the penultimate flight, Macs Joy went on pressed by Georges Girl with Dromlease Express making relentless headway on the outside.
Producing a good turn of foot, the Charles Byrne-trained Dromlease Express quickened to lead at the last and a good jump there settled the issue.
The six-year-old only had to be kept up to his work to beat Macs Joy (14-1) by three and a half lengths.
Georges Girl (7-1) was third with Steel Band (20-1) back in fourth.
Beechcourt, the other market leader, flattered briefly coming off the final bend but soon cried enough and dropped out of contention as the principals went on.
