Brise too strong for rivals

The Willie Mullins-trained mare Walk In The Brise justified favourtism in the ITM Stallion Trail Maiden Hurdle with a commanding victory.

Paul Townend tracked the leaders in the three-miler before asking the 11/8 favourite to take closer order turning for home.

She was untidy at the third last flight but travelled well to lead before the next and a fine leap there sealed matters.

The daughter of Walk In The Park was clear going down the last and popped it to record a cosy 13 length victory.

Walk In The Brise was making her third outing over hurdles and had been third on her most recent start at Tramore.

"She handled the ground surprisingly well and having had a couple of recent runs, was fit. It was very straightforward, she jumped like a buck and she is very honest,” said Townend.

"She was beaten by decent mares at Tramore and that was a big improvement on her previous disappointing run here. That Tramore level would have put her close today and I think she has improved again.

"The fact she handled today's ground will open more doors to her."

Regarding Alastor s opening race defeat, he added "he did most things right throughout the race but didn't find much so it is back to the drawing board with him."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)