Bachasson got his season off to an impressive start when taking the Boomerang Animal Bedding And Boomerang Horse & Country Store Chase at Thurles.

Just four went to post for this 2m6f Listed event with Lieutenant Colonel (off feed) an absentee, and Val De Ferbet made the running until after halfway.

Paul Townend sent Bachasson into a clear lead soon after the fourth last, and the 8/11 favourite was in command in the straight.

Willie Mullins’ charge came home on a tight rein for a facile 24 lengths verdict over Val De Ferbet, while the long-time absent Apache Stronghold made a number of mistakes finishing a further 14 lengths back in third.

Townend said, "He jumped like a buck and I didn't want to disappoint him so I let him go on. I thought he was much stronger there and it was a fair performance.

"If he can build on that he has a good future. Val De Ferbet isn't a bad yardstick and he beat him out of sight and I was very taken by it. He can go to three miles but he's not slow and has plenty options, so they'll have plenty of fun with him."

(TW & AM)