Kivu makes impressive start for Mullins

Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh both recorded doubles when teaming up with impressive French recruit Lac Kivu in the two-and-a-half mile maiden hurdle at Punchestown.

The four-year-old was sent off the well-supported 11/8 joint favourite (5/2 this morning) sharing the head of the market with Someday

He settled behind the leaders before moving closer at the second last. Cinema De Quartier hit the front turning for home, from Someday, but Lac Kivu swept past going to the final flight.

The Sakhee gelding pulled clear in style on the run-in to record a 13 length success. Someday was a further six lengths back in third.

That was a good performance first time up. The trip was no problem and he can go the staying summer novice hurdle route,” said Mullins.

"He's for a new client, John Turner from London. That's a good start and hopefully he'll continue to be lucky."

John Turner owns last years Greyhound Derby winner Jaytee Jet, trained by Paul Hennessy.

Mullins had taken the opener with the Mark Walsh ridden Blazer while Walsh had teamed up with Jessica Harrington on Sandymount Duke

(Quotes by Alan Magee)