Seven races were completed at Punchestown on Monday as the National Hunt meeting delivered a structured afternoon of hurdles racing, featuring maidens, novices, and handicaps across the card. The programme progressed without incident, producing a sequence of clear results from the opening race through to the final staying contest, as reflected in the Punchestown Race Results 26 January.
LEADER D’ALLIER opened the card in the maiden hurdle at 13:10 with a composed and efficient performance. Ridden by P. Townend and trained by W. P. Mullins for owner Michael Hilary Burke, the French-bred runner travelled smoothly throughout before asserting after the final hurdle to record a race time of 4:21.8.
The afternoon’s first handicap hurdle, run at 13:40, was claimed by SOPELANA, who delivered a controlled effort to secure success. The winner remained well positioned through the closing stages and stayed on steadily to complete the contest in 4:21.8.
At 14:10, the mares’ maiden hurdle went the way of BLUE VELVET, who added another success for the W. P. Mullins stable. Partnered by P. Townend and racing in the colours of Gigginstown House Stud, the mare jumped fluently and moved clear late on to stop the clock at 5:14.3.
The geldings’ and colts’ maiden hurdle at 14:40 was won by THE PASSING WIFE after a determined display. Ridden by K. M. Donoghue and trained by Gavin Cromwell for the Cant Say No Syndicate, the winner stayed on strongly to score in a time of 5:22.2.
The rated novice hurdle at 15:10 saw SPINNINGAYARN register a clear-cut victory. J. W. Kennedy delivered a well-judged ride for trainer Gordon Elliott, with the Robcour-owned runner showing consistency and resolve to complete the race in 5:22.0.
Another handicap hurdle followed at 15:40, where KOBALT ST GEORGES emerged on top. Trained by Robert Tyner and ridden by P. T. Enright for owner Brendan Keogh, the winner produced a sustained effort to record a race time of 5:23.7.
The afternoon concluded with the staying handicap hurdle at 16:10, won by NETTUNO ITALIA. Ridden by D. J. Gilligan and trained by Ross O’Sullivan for John N. Place, the winner demonstrated stamina and determination to see out the contest in 6:41.0.
The meeting highlighted strong performances from both established yards and emerging talent, ensuring Monday’s card provided a clear indication of form ahead in the National Hunt season. Punchestown continues to deliver consistent racing action as the winter programme progresses.
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