Absinthe knocks back Wetherby rivals

Donald McCain's Absinthe had no trouble justifying cramped odds in the Wetherby Racecourse Showground For Outdoor Events Conditional Jockeys' Novices' Hurdle this afternoon.

The smart Flat recruit had made a fine start to his career over jumps at Bangor in early January, but failed to build on that success in three subsequent starts.

Sent off the 1-5 favourite for this four-runner heat, Absinthe was sent straight to the front by the season's leading conditional Henry Brooke and the result was scarcely in doubt as he hurdled well in the main on his way to a 13-length victory.

Stagecoach Jasper filled the runner-up spot.

"It's lovely ground, they've done a great job with it," said Brooke.

"This horse has done it well and you'd like to think he'll have a big race in him somewhere along the line.

"He's got tight into three out and wrapped it, but he's learning all the time."