Franchoek bids for Punchestown prize

Triumph Hurdle runner-up Franchoek reverts to two miles for a crack at the Eventus Marquees Champion 4-Y-O Hurdle at Punchestown on Saturday.

Alan King’s charge, third last time over an extra four furlongs at Aintree, will be the sole British-trained representative in the Grade One feature.

Connections are looking forward to the test, but admit Franchoek is unlikely to be seen over the minimum trip for long.

King said: “We’re very happy with him, he’ll stay over in Ireland after this race and go to JP’s Martinstown Stud.

“I’d like to think with Binocular out of the way he’d have a great chance.

“I think he will step up in trip next year – we ran him over two and a half at Aintree, don’t forget,” he told At The Races.

“He needed all of two miles when he ran on the Flat and he’ll definitely get two and a half or even further next season.”

Won In The Dark finished third in the Triumph and will again lock horns with Franchoek, while Beau Michael and C’est Ca are also among the opposition.

Paco Jack beat Miss Fancy Pants in Grade Three company last time and that pair will both run, as will the unbeaten Quevega, who steps up in class after two smooth victories at a lower level.

Indian Spring, Personal Column and Thousand Stars complete the 10-strong line-up.