Thurles report: Churchstonewarrior provides another winner for Jonathan Sweeney

Churchstonewarrior and Denis O'Regan (near) win the INH. Stallion Owners EBF Novice Hurdle from Idas Boy (far). Picture: Healy Racing

Churchstonewarrior continues to be a good advertisement for the ability of his trainer, Jonathan Sweeney, who boasts a fine strike rate with the few horses he sends to the track. Contesting the INH Stallion Owners EBF Novice Hurdle, he was heavily supported into favouritism and justified that confidence under a strong ride by Denis O’Regan.

Bringing his tally to three wins in just six outings inside the rails, he was patiently ridden initially but O’Regan brought him with a strong challenge early in the straight and got a little extra from his mount to see off market rival Idas Boy by half a length.