Beat That takes G1 for Milan

Beat That (6g Milan-Knotted Midge, by Presenting) looked a future Gold Cup contender when capturing the G1 Irish Daily Mirror Novice Hurdle in brilliant style at the Punchestown Festival on Wednesday. The son of Milan, who was bred by John O’Brien, was also a G1 winner at Aintree earlier in April and trainer Nicky Henderson is already dreaming of next season. “Barry (Geraghty) said the horse didn’t feel quite as fresh as he was at Aintree. He had a tough race that day and it was a real fierce battle,” said Henderson. “He did a piece of work on Saturday and it wasn’t brilliant. He’s only had four runs over hurdles and is a very progressive horse and it’s exciting to put something like him away for the summer. He wanted to win and has a heart of gold. He’s a three-mile chaser of the future.” Owner Michael Buckley added: “That was wonderful. He’s a game little fellow and Barry says he is still weak but he seems to get home.”