Skip to content

Reserve Tank wins Champion Novice Hurdle at Punchestown

Reserve Tank leads Brewin'upastorm over the last
Image: Reserve Tank

Reserve Tank held the late challenge of Sams Profile in a thrilling climax to the Alanna Homes Champion Novice Hurdle at Punchestown.

A strong field of 11 runners went to post for the two-and-a-half-mile Grade One, with Martin Brassil's City Island the red-hot favourite at 11-10 as he aimed to follow up his impressive display in the Ballymore Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham.

The Colin Tizzard-trained Reserve Tank had won his three most recent starts over hurdles, completing his hat-trick with a surprise win at Aintree's Grand National meeting.

With Robbie Power in the saddle, the 13-2 chance headed the chasing pack as Royal Rendezvous led for much of the way, before cruising to the front before the home turn.

The five-year-old looked set to win decisively at the top of the straight, but Sams Profile powered home after the final flight and there was just half a length between the pair crossing the line.

Also See:

Eglantine Du Seuil fared best of five runners for Willie Mullins in third, with City Island well-beaten in sixth.

Sky Sports Racing Selector
Sky Sports Racing Selector

Select seven winners in the Sky Sports Racing Selector to win the jackpot

Around Sky