Castlebawn West and Paul Townend © Photo Healy Racing
Topweight Castlebawn West (11s this morning into 13/2) led from an early stage to land the Paddy Power Handicap Chase (Grade B) and give Paul Townend a big-race treble after earlier Grade 1 wins on Chacun Pour Soi and Appreciate It
The Westerner gelding, carrying 11st 10lbs, jumped well out in front and found plenty in the straight to see off Minella Times (14/1) by four and a half lengths. Farclas (17/2) and Trainwreck (50/1) completed the frame while the 11/2 favourite Lock’s Corner was already struggling when making a bad mistake two out and was pulled up.
The winner, previously successful in a bumper, maiden hurdle and beginners’ chase, had run well on his handicap debut when third to Daly Tiger at Punchestown last month. This was his first time to land a big prize.
It was also a big-race treble on the day for winning trainer Willie Mullins who said: “That was a huge performance. He was so slick jumping in front, he was getting breathers and as Paul said the better he jumped the more confidence he got.
“He’d been working very well at home but it’s hard to go into a big handicap like that with top-weight thinking he could win.
“We’ll be looking at the Aintree National or the Irish National after that. He’s probably going to handicap himself out of the Thyestes now.
“He’s not a huge horse but has great scope and a great technique (for jumping).”
The winner is 33/1 for the Grand National and 50/1 for the Gold Cup with Paddy Power and Betfair.
