Tactical Move gives Mullins and Townend their double Willie Mullins and Paul Townend brought up a quick-fire double at Punchestown when Tactical Move overcame a massive layoff in the first split of the two mile maiden hurdle. The nine-year-old gelding was plenty keen early on but held an ideal position in behind the leader Stellium. He travelled well and was on terms after the second last. Townend didn't have to get serious with him as he took over just before the last. The son of Stowaway was driven out on the run-in, and flashed his tail, as he came in by a decisive five and a half lengths at an easy-to-back 7/4. Stellium ran a fine race in second at 66/1 and was two and a quarter lengths clear of Lets Go Champ (13/8f). Assistant trainer David Casey said: “I'm surprised at that, I didn't think he'd be fit enough to do that and he must be a fair animal. “Paul said he took a couple of blows and there is huge improvement in him. He said he was very keen and fresh. We're obviously delighted with what he did. “Paul said he can't wait to go jumping fences with him. “I thought he'd get tired but he didn't and he kept galloping. He must have a huge engine to do what he did. “He said he was kicking him going down to the start but in the race he said he was so fresh. “He's obviously had trouble so we'll try and keep him sound and see where we go with him.” Tactical Move was last seen winning a Clonmel bumper back in November 2019. Additional reporting by Gary Carson
