Blazing scorches to listed glory

Blazing Sky cruised to success under Paddy Flood in the Total Event Rental Mares Hurdle at Punchestown.

The 8-13 favourite defeated mares of the calibre of Brogella and Celestial Wave in the race 12 months ago – but there was nothing of that class in the field this year.

Frank McGuinness’ seven-year-old was brought to the front with half a mile to run and won by an eased-down seven lengths from Amber Trix.

“It probably wasn’t as good a race as last year,” admitted McGuinness.

“But she needed that because she had more weight this time. She had muscle problems all last year but we put her out in summer and she came back right after that.

“If she comes out of this well she will go to Down Royal for a mares race there.

“I would love to go Cheltenham with her for the new mares race but that is a long way off.”