Ruby Walsh revealed in his Irish Examiner column today that Willie Mullins' French-recruit Stormy Ireland "isn't the biggest mare in the world but she jumps well." She duly impressed under Danny Mullins in the Racing On New Years Day 3-y-o Maiden Hurdle.

The 2/7 shot put her hurdling experience in France to good use, making all and asserting from the fifth.

It was soon 'bar a fall' for the Sullivan Bloodstock Limited-owned daughter of Motivator.

In the end she was unchallenged on her way to a fifty eight length demolition of North Carolina There was then a ten length gap back to the third home, Ontheiflist

Danny Mullins said afterwards: "That was a good performance. I don't know how much strength in depth there was to the race but you can't take anything away from her.

"She was very professional, jumped well and travelled. She's a small filly who handles that ground with fierce ease. We can stay dreaming!"

(AM & EM)