Longer trip brings out the best in Pure Genius at Punchestown

Low Lie The Fields and Rachael Blackmore (nearest) on the way to winning the Ladbrokes Supporting Irish Racing Novice Handicap Hurdle from Itsnotinit (far side). Picture: Healy Racing

Pure Genius ran out the day’s easier winner when routing the opposition in the Ladbrokes Watch Racing Online For Free Maiden Hurdle. Mark Walsh sent Ted Walsh’s grey set out in front and he quickly settled into a great rhythm.

The 4-1 chance produced some brilliant leaps along the way and, trying three miles for the first time, maintained a good gallop and rhythm throughout. Long odds-on favourite Fantasio D’alene tracked him most of the way but got left behind in the closing stages and was a tired horse jumping the final flight a distance behind the impressive winner.