hunt progress continues in arkle

Schindlers Hunt is clear at Leopardstown.

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On the afternoon old warrior Hardy Eustace confirmed himself a serious contender for more Champion Hurdle glory, Grade One honours also went the way of stablemate Schindlers Hunt.

The progressive seven-year-old's victory in the Baileys Arkle Perpetual Challenge Cup Novice Chase set the ball rolling on what proved a red-letter day for handler Dessie Hughes.

Schindlers Hunt, the well-backed 8-13 favourite, nosed ahead soon after the third-last fence and kept up the gallop to see off 5-1 chance King Johns Castle by two lengths.

Grade Two scorer Hear The Echo made most of the running until Schindlers Hunt assumed command - but he was still close enough before crashing out at the penultimate fence.

Roger Loughran looked in control from that point on and the race seemed as good as over when he pushed the button on the run to the final obstacle.

Schindlers Hunt picked up well when asked and always had the measure of King Johns Castle, who made some inroads late on.

Not engaged in the Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy at Cheltenham due to an administrative error, the winner could instead take in the Royal & SunAlliance Chase on March 14.

"He jumped really well but he tends to idle in front," explained the County Kildare-based handler.

"I've always rated him and he's a nice individual with a bit of class and he's got speed as well.

"He's not in the Arkle but he is in the SunAlliance - although we missed Cheltenham last year to keep him fresh and we might do the same thing again.

"I'll consider the Ascot Chase next month for him but his main aim is the Powers Gold Cup at Fairyhouse and then he'll probably go to Punchestown at the end of the season.

"I'd say he's more of a two-and-a-half-miler and he'll be better going a trip.

"Three miles should prove no problem in time."

Frank Berry, racing manager to JP McManus, owner of King Johns Castle, said: "He was beaten by a better horse on the day but he's in the Arkle so we'll sit down and consider that."