Champion Trainer Willie Mullins combined with stable jockey Ruby Walsh for a treble at Naas today when Clonard Lad gained a long overdue second success in the Book Hospitality On Line Maiden Hurdle.

Clonard Lad, the 9/10 favourite and third winning Mullins odds-on shot on the day, gained his bumper win at Tramore in April 2010 but has had an interrupted career since, and missed three years through injury until returning to action in September.

Mullins later stated “persistence pays off! He deserved that win.

“He could easily go out in trip as he's a dour stayer and a good jumper; he keeps improving with every run.”

Mullins' and Walsh's earlier winners were Rupert Lamb and Diakali while their their winner Clonard Lad carries the colours of Clane, Co Kildare based DAFTC Syndicate.

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Alan Magee