Limestone Lad returns to action over hurdles at Punchestown tomorrow after injury ruled the prolific winner out of last month's Cheltenham Festival. The 10-year-old, who damaged back muscles in a paddock accident in February, runs in the Kevin McManus Bookmakers Champion Stayers Hurdle having been sharpened up by a recent run on the Flat.
James Bowe's charge - the winner of 29 races - faces eight rivals in tomorrow's Grade One contest, including the British-trained duo Montalcino and Spendid. There is a strong British contingent on the third day of the Punchestown Festival with a total of 16 horses making the journey to the Co Kildare track.
Giocomo and Quazar (Jonjo O'Neill), Greenhope (Nicky Henderson) and Eluna (Ian Williams) bid for the Grade One Punchestown Exhibition & Event Centre Champion Hurdle where the home challenge is lead by Newhall, Heezapistol and Hyderabad. Arkle Chase winner reappears in the Grade One Swordlestown Cup Novice Chase. Jessica Harrington's charge faces just five rivals in the two mile contest including Mantles Prince.
Filed by Laura Reynolds
