Grainne A Chroi picks up Grade Three prize at Punchestown

Grainne A Chroi shone for trainer Marie Harding when taking the Matchbook Betting Exchange Quevega Mares Hurdle at Punchestown.

The seven-year-old went close in a Grade Three at Limerick when last seen in March, and returned to action at the same level under John Shinnick as a 16-1 chance.

The 342-day break and a schooling fall proved little hindrance as the mare showed plenty of heart to collect a three-quarter-length win as the outsider of a field of six.

“That was great, we’re delighted,” said Harding. “She’s actually a good mare, but she’s got stronger as she’s got older.

“We were a little bit worried as she got a bad fall before Christmas, schooling. She was telling us she was right, but we were still nervous. Her skin was unreal.

“She’s tough and she actually did it really well. She came around the home bend really travelling and he went for it.

“John hadn’t sat on her in a long time, but he won her maiden hurdle.

“We were just worried about today and we’ll see where we go now. We’ll see how she is tomorrow. She’ll tell us where we’re going next.”

She added: “That was amazing, I can’t believe it. She’s our pet at home. She’s not over-big but she’s got a serious heart.”

The Matchbook 50:50 Graduation Series Mares Maiden Hurdle went the way of How’s Hannah, ridden by Patrick Mullins for his father, Willie.

The seven-year-old was making her debut over hurdles having won a bumper and a point to point, and made short work on her first attempt when prevailing by two lengths with the third-placed horse 42 lengths back.

“I think she’s a very good mare,” said the winning rider of the 1-2 favourite.

“I was keen to use one of my 21 rides (in rules races as an amateur) on her because I just think she’s very good.

“We might look at the Grade Three in Limerick during Cheltenham.

“Ideally we would have run her last week in Clonmel but it got called off. We’re a week closer now so we’ll see.

“Long term I’d be hoping she might be one for the Mares’ Chase in Cheltenham next year. She’s a fine big mare and I love her.

“She gallops and jumps. We’ve been very lucky with Tim Townend (breeder), when he recommends one you listen.”