David Pipe’s Thanksforthehelp made it three UK-based winners in just two days at the Punchestown Festival when coming with a powerful run after the last to land the Adare Manor Opportunity Series Final Handicap Hurdle.
Pipe, whose American Sniper also ran well to finish sixth under a big weight, was adding to wins for Mike Smith and Harry Derham on the opening day.
Thanksforthehelp (14-1) was one of five runners in the race for his owner JP McManus, who sponsored the race, and it was the blue capped runner who led them home under Gavin Brouder.
“On his day, he’s a decent horse. He probably could have done with the ground being a bit softer but Gavin Brouder gave him a great ride and he battled strongly, and was very brave today,” said Pipe.
“We thought he had a decent each-way chance. We had two in the race and the other one finished sixth, he ran well.
“It’s lovely to get a winner for JP. We’ve had some nice winners here in the past and it’s great to have another one.”