Monksland has been introduced into the betting for the Neptune Novices Hurdle at 16/1 following his Grade two victory at Naas on Sunday. (credit: Will Palmer)
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Monksland has been introduced into the betting for the Neptune Novices Hurdle at 16/1 following his Grade two victory at Naas on Sunday.
The Irish raider put up an impressive performance to win the Slaney Hurdle and Hayley O'Connor of Ladbrokes explained to Cheltenhampro: "We've seen a couple of promising contenders for the Neptune Hurdle over the weekend with Noel Meade's Monksland the latest to be introduced to the betting following an eye catching win in the Slaney Hurdle today."
Delighted winning trainer Noel Meade explained: "He was a difficult horse to break when Willie Slattery had him and when we had him first he wasn't straightforward, but he's fine now.
"That went exactly to plan. I thought he'd win to be honest, as he is very good. He was involved in a serious piece of work at Fairyhouse where he finished second to Bog Warrior and I think he had a bit up his sleeve.
"He has done everything right since and jumps well. He is good enough for Cheltenham and he will go there for the two-and-a-half-mile hurdle.
"I'm not sure whether he will run before that as he is easy to get fit. He worked well on Tuesday morning on soft ground and should handle better ground.
"He had earplugs in as he used to be very nervous but he has relaxed and never turned a hair today."
