Fatcat much the best in Leopardstown opener

The market suggested Fatcatinthehat wasn't going to be beaten in the opening leopardstown.com Maiden Hurdle and so it proved as he impressed under Paul Townend.

Always seeming to be doing plenty in the hands of the former champion, on the front end, the Authorized gelding had loads left when required and he asserted up the straight to slam Ibsen (off the bridle from a long way out) by eight lengths.

Willie Mullins trains Fatcatinthehat for Mrs Susannah Ricci and he remarked: "I'm very pleased. It looked a fast race and there was no let up in the pace.

"He jumped fantastic and I couldn't ask for any better.

"He'll probably go for the Fred Winter and we'll see what sort of mark he gets.

"He'll get an entry in the Triumph, the Fred Winter and maybe the Supreme Novice as well.

"I'd say that took a lot out of him and I doubt if he'll have another run before Cheltenham."

Fatcatinthehat was introduced at 16/1 for the Fred Winter with Stan James. (GC & EM)