Review PUNCHESTOWN 9TH JAN

Ruby Walsh dominated proceedings at the Co. Kildare venue when completing a near 60/1 four-timer to move onto the 45 winner mark for the season.

The reigning champion teamed up with Willie Mullins to land the first two events with Killultagh Thunder and Assessed, and was also successful aboard Atlantic Rhapsody and Native Leisure - both trained by his father Ted.

Killultagh Thunder, whose half-brother Killultagh Storm lines-up for the Victor Chandler Chase at Ascot on Saturday, was sent on before the last to beat Executive Director by four lengths in the Carnalway Maiden Hurdle.

'That gives us the travelling expenses for Ascot,' said Mullins before adding, 'Ruby said he needs two and a half miles. He will stay novice hurdling this season, and chasing will be the plan next year.'

Mullins nominated the Baileys Arkle Chase at Leopardstown on January 27 as the likely next race for Assessed, who made virtually all in the two miles Kilcullen Novice Chase. The eight-year-old gelding was joined briefly by Royal Jake at the penultimate fence, but found plenty under pressure to score by eight lengths

'He's a great jumper, and is very adaptable distance wise. The Irish Grand National is a possible target later this season,' said Mullins.

Atlantic Rhapsody gave odds-on punters a fright before narrowly beating Taranges in the Watch House Cross Maiden Hurdle, while Walsh recorded his first four-timer when Native Leisure landed a gamble in the Fairyland Novice Handicap Hurdle. The son of Be My Native led before the final flight, and stayed on well to beat Lancero by three and a half lengths.

Indeed it could have been an even better day for Walsh as both his other mounts, Big Frank and No Discount, held every chance before filling the runner-up spot.

Alan Magee