GORDON Elliott struck first blood on day three of the Punchestown Festival when Park Paddocks justified market support in the JLT Handicap Hurdle.

The County Meath handler, who began the day trailing Willie Mullins in the race to be champion trainer in Ireland, cut the deficit when the 6/1 favourite obliged in a competitive 25-runner contest.

Jack Kennedy sent the four-year-old into the lead between the last two flights but was soon challenged by Neverushacon, who looked a big danger. However, Park Paddocks found extra on the flat to go on and score by two and a half lengths.

"Jack gave him a good ride, and he jumped well. He'll probably go chasing over the summer and use the four-year-old allowance," said Elliott. "He's a horse that might even go back to the flat at some stage."

Elliott vowed to enjoy the rest of the meeting despite the amazing turnaround in the trainers' championship following Mullins' six-timer on Wednesday.

He said: "It's racing, and you have to smile and keep your head up. Willie is an amazing man and it just goes to show what he can do.

"If you give up in this game you're in trouble. We are on the back foot and we'll enjoy the rest of the week whatever happens."