Lossiemouth and Paul Townend © Photo Healy Racing
Lossiemouth emulated her stable companion State Man by ending an unbeaten campaign with Grade 1 success at Punchestown. The Willie Mullins trained grey proved far too strong for a trio of rivals in the Coolmore N.H. Sires Bolshoi Ballet Irish EBF Mares Champion Hurdle.
Late back into training this season, the five-year-old made a successful reappearance in the Unibet Hurdle at Cheltenham in January, before following up back at the festival on her most recent start.
Having only her third outing of the season this afternoon, the Paul Townend ridden mare led entering the straight before powering clear to record an impressive seven length victory.
Paul Townend said: "She stamped her authority on it again there. She is just superior to the other mares at the moment. It's lovely to have her.
"It was a good test today. Only scare was up the side when Rachael was dropping back. I wanted to pop and she(Lossiemouth) had a cut at it.
"It's a privilege to ride both(her and State Man). I hope they stay apart for as long as possible."
Winning trainer Willie Mullins added: "She didn't jump with same fluency but I think probably Paul was trying to settle her so that she didn't get going too quick. They went a very fast gallop and he was happy enough to let her settle.
"Off that gallop it was a great performance. Paul wanted to keep the lid on for want of a better word.
"I think she has done enough for the year now.
"All being well, she will go for the Champion Hurdle next year, That's the plan at the moment."
Paddy Power left Lossiemouth unchanged at 7/2 for the Champion Hurdle. She is now 15/8 from 9/4 for the Mares Hurdle.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee.
