Eb back in the flow at Punchestown

Ebaziyan won his first race since scoring at the Cheltenham Festival last year when taking the Ollie Finn Supporting Go Racing In Kildare Hurdle at Punchestown.

Willie Mullins’ Supreme Novices’ Hurdle winner has been found wanting in better company this season, but dropped significantly in grade he was able to show his class.

Never too far from the pace set by Sabina Park, Davy Condon made his move rounding the final bend and cruised up to challenge.

After an adequate leap at the last, the 2-5 favourite was pushed out to beat the long-time leader by one and three-quarter lengths.

William Hill left the winner unchanged at 33-1 for the Champion Hurdle and 20-1 for the totesport Trophy.

Mullins said: “He didn’t like that gluey ground.

“I’m glad to get that win as it may be his only success this season. He will be campaigned at Grade One level for the rest of the year.

“His likely next target is the AIG at Leopardstown, followed by the Cheltenham Champion Hurdle and then back to Punchestown for the Festival meeting.”