Byrnes to give Merchant Paddy a rest

Charles Byrnes is to give Merchent Paddy a well-earned break following his second success in a week at Leopardstown on Sunday.

The progressive eight-year-old followed up his victory at Naas seven days earlier with an 11-length defeat of Bohemian Lass in the Grade Two Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Novice Chase over two miles and five furlongs.

“He was impressive and he’s improving, but I thought it was an average race,” said the County Limerick trainer.

“I have no plans for him yet and I haven’t discussed it with the owners.

“He won’t run for a while, he’ll get a break now for a bit.

“He might stay further and on good ground he could get three miles.”

Byrnes was also delighted with Carthalawn’s run to finish third behind shock winner Penny’s Bill in the Pierse Hurdle.

He added: “We’ll keep chipping away with him in handicaps.

“He’s a tough horse and takes plenty of racing.

“We’ll keep him going as the more racing he gets, the better he gets.”