Very Much So (Johnny Burke, blue star on cap) saw off Snow Falcon (nearside, hood)© Photo Healy Racing
Though Patrick Mullins was on the disappointing favourite – Nicky Henderson's Native Display (15/8, second last) – the very talented Johnny Burke's seven pound claim doubtless came in handy as Willie Mullins' Very Much So (12/1) triumphed in the Goffs Land Rover Bumper at Punchestown.
The Scorpion gelding, making his debut here, came a little close with Snow Falcon in the closing stages but pulled out enough to see off that one by three parts of a length.
Mullins, doubling-up after Faugheen s win earlier, said of the Supreme Horse Racing Club-owned winner: "We were hoping for the best. I thought he might improve and run on but I didn't think he would do that.
"That's the first bit of work he's ever won – he's just green.
"We had him away the other morning for a gallop and he bucked off David Casey.
"He's green and immature. I gave about double (12K) what I wanted to give for him at the sales. He's a half-brother to Jessies Dream.
"It looks good now and I only sold him there lately.
"Johnny rides out for us during the holidays and anytime he has a spare moment he comes in during the week.
"I'd imagine that's his first winner for me – I don't think he's ridden a winner for me before.
"He has a valuable seven pound claim. He's a good rider and I've been admiring him all the time."
The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Native Display, trained by Nicky Henderson (in GB), at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be blowing hard post race and distressed.
Samples were taken for analysis.
(GC & EM)
