Grand Bornand (nearest) & Russian Diamond jump the last together with the latter about to crash out© Photo Healy Racing
Grand Bornand continued the domination of Willie Mullins at Galway, as he ran out an easy winner of the Guinness Beginners Chase.
A ninth success of the week for Mullins, the grey son of Montmartre was completing a treble on the day for the master of Closutton.
Successful over hurdles at Leopardstown in March, the 4/1 chance (from 7s) had disappointed on his last two starts and was making his debut over fences this evening.
In a share of the lead for much of the contest, he wasn't fluent five out and was left in a clear lead when Russian Diamond (2/1f) crashed out at the final fence.
Paul Townend had an easy time of it from there, with Grand Bornand coming home five-and-a-half lengths clear of Busselton (3/1) and JJ Slevin in second.
Mullins said in the aftermath: "He disappointed me over hurdles on the homework he does so maybe chasing might be his game. Maybe ground is a factor too and he looks a lovely prospect for chasing.
"Paul was happy enough how he was going when the other horse fell. Paul is good at the moment (following an earlier fall) but will probably be sore tomorrow."
STEWARDS REPORT
P.J. Cawley, rider of Four Courts trained by Brian Francis Cawley, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was flat out all the way.
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
