Babbling Stream in full flow at Naas

Babbling Stream had strong form in the book that saw him well-backed for the opening maiden hurdle at Naas and he readily delivered for Willie Mullins.

On his last appearance he took third to Death Duty and Our Duke in a Listed bumper at Navan, so punters took the early 15/8 this morning before sending him off the 5/4 favourite for his hurdling debut.

Ruby Walsh was content to settle him in second behind Blue Templar before almost getting on terms at the half-way mark.

On the run to the fourth last the pair took a narrow lead and travelled strongly into the home straight.

At the second last King Of Aragon and Unyielding closed into second and third respectively, however, the favourite showed a good turn of foot to quicken away from them before the last.

He jumped the final obstacle well clear and wasn't extended in easing to a 12-length victory. The Granson who was absolutely friendless in the market, kept on well after the last to get up for second at 50/1 from Unyielding who had no more to give in third at 5/2.

Ruby Walsh said: "He did it really well. I think the owners were anxious to sell him so that's why we went maiden hurdling. He's entered in the Supreme but that's why we had to get him out and get going.

"It was a super turn of foot off the bend. It was a muddling enough race but the quicker we were going the better he jumped. He was good at the second last and at the last, still a bit green. There will be improvement there.

"The ground wasn't too bad, it was fresh ground. Naas do great work with the track. Once it gets chopped up I'm sure it will get worse."

Patrick Mullins added: "That was much more like what we have been expecting and he jumped fantastic. He showed a great turn of foot up the straight.

"He’s entered in the Supreme Novice and is for sale. He was very impressive there. He’s by Authorized, like Nichols Canyon, and should be a good dual purpose horse."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee