Willie Mullins delighted with Punchestown result
The veteran trainer, Willie Mullins, was delighted with the way his trained runners performed in the Irish Daily Mirror War Of Attrition Novice Hurdle (Grade 1) at Punchestown in Ireland on Wednesday, April 25, 2012.
Marasonnien managed to win the race by a comprehensive margin of three lengths whereas he was followed by Vesper Bell and Sous Les Cieux, who finished second and third respectively. All of these runners were trained by Mullins, thus he was extremely happy
with the way things went.
Out of the above three runners, Sous Les Cieux had won the confidence of the bookies, as he was given the best odds for the race. However, he failed to meet their expectations and finished third in the end. This could have been his third victory out of eight
attempts in races over hurdles.
The six-year-old-gelding was partnered by veteran jockey, Ruby Walsh, who has a terrific strike rate over hurdles and has been one of the most consistent riders over the past few years.
However, the strong pair of Sous Les Cieux and Walsh was unable to fight for victory at Punchestown and they will have to wait for another opportunity now.
Despite that, Mullins was satisfied in the end, as the race winner, Marasonnien, was also one of his trainees. The six-year-old gelding was given a starting price of 12 to 1 for the race and he surprised one and all with his speed and stamina. He started
off decently and did not allow his rivals to get away at the start.
Marasonnien increased his speed as the finish line got closer and he did not allow anyone else to come closer in the end. This was his second victory over hurdles in five attempts. He has also secured a couple of runner up positions in his career.
Reflecting on the performance of his trainees, Mullins said, “I wouldn't have thought I've done that before and the owner has done it as well. They are three stayers, just the sort of horse I try to buy. I wouldn't have thought Marasonnien was the best of
them beforehand but it looks that way now.”
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