Champions Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh teamed up to win the Ballsbridge Hurdle at Leopardstown today with Felix Yonger returning from a mini-break to win for last season's leading trainer and jockey.

Walsh had Felix Yonger with the pace throughout but entering the home straight allowed new leader Gerdago kick for home. Felix Yonger was soon asked to quicken and in the end stayed on strongly on the run-in, for a two and a quarter lengths win over hurdles newcomer and 50/1 shot Cardinal Palace

Mullins later stated it was a nice opportunity for him but I didn't know how ready I had him after missing some time. His rating was good enough to win and he did what he should have done.

"It's good to have him back and we'll probably look at Fairyhouse and Punchestown or we might look at Aintree. We'll keep our options open."

Felix Yonger's previous race was when winning the Hilly Way Chase at Cork in December when he 'nosed' Mallowney close home.

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson