Paul Townend made a winning return to action in the opening Western People Maiden Hurdle at Ballinrobe today, winning on easy 8/15 favourite Rattan

Townend had few anxious moments, eventually scoring a three lengths win over Glemstar.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins was not present but travelling head lad Gary Davis stated “Rattam is enjoying his racing and will be kept going through the summer. He seemed to bounce off the ground.”

The win moves Townend, out with a fractured collarbone since late March, onto the 77 winner mark for the season, five clear of Davy Russell at the head of the Jump Jockeys’ Championship.

Thomas Weekes