Ruby Walsh (yellow and brown) strikes on for the win on Bellow Mome© Photo Healy Racing
Willie Mullins made it a double from his two runners at Punchestown as Bellow Mome added to the gains Annie Power half-an-hour earlier by taking the Festival Party Pack From 25 Euro Maiden Hurdle with Ruby Walsh also in the plate.
The victorious 4/1 shot was always to the fore and he held off the challenge of Lip Service on the run-in to score by half a length.
"That was a pleasant surprise. I didn't think he'd handle that ground. There were only three runners in the first so the ground was relatively fresh. He jumped well, and it was a big improvement on his last run," reflected Mullins on the Mrs Audrey Turley-owned five-year-old.
"The shorter trip probably helped, and we'll look at Fairyhouse and Punchestown."
B. Hayes, rider of Mustadaam trained by John Joseph Hanlon, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount lost his action and was pulled up.
P. Townend, rider of Braize (FR) trained by G.T.Hourigan, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung left.
S.J. Gray, rider of Ladys Crusade trained by V. T. O'Brien, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount burst a blood vessel and was pulled up. (Confirmed by Turf Club Veterinary Officer).
The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Mustadaam, trained by John Joseph Hanlon, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be Post Race Normal.
(AM & EM)
