Champion Trainer Willie Mullins combined with his stable jockey Ruby Walsh and owner J.P. McManus to win the opening Festival Hospitality From E99 Beginners Chase at Punchestown today with Jarry D'Honneur which made all for a comfortable win.

The French bred three times hurdle winner made all and went clear of Apache Jack from the second last fence, to record an eight and a half lengths win over Bishops Road which himself finished ahead of Apache Jack.

Following the win, Mullins stated "he's straight forward and jumped well. He improved a bit from Navan and Ruby said two and a half miles was no problem for him. He handles the ground well and there'll be plenty of opportunities for him."

Jockey Walsh added "I was probably expecting more from Apache Jack. This horse was sick and missed a year and jumps well and doesn't back off."

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Alan Magee