Willie Mullins' Sainte Lucie made a winning debut at Punchestown, impressing trainer and jockey with her effortless victory. Meanwhile, Ballyadam returned to winning form and Shannon Royale continued his promising chase career.
Willie Mullins could have another rising star on his hands after Sainte Lucie strolled to an 11-length victory on her yard debut at Punchestown . The three-year-old is owned by Susannah Ricci and ran once for previous connections in her native France, finishing third in an Auteuil hurdle contest in April. Under Paul Townend, she was the 8-11 favourite and ran towards the front of the field, taking up the lead over the latter obstacles before pulling away to claim an 11-length triumph.
“Paul was very happy with her and loved the way she galloped through that ground,” said Mullins. “I’d imagine we’ll be going for the top events with her. She looks top drawer.”There may have only been three runners in the Make The Tote App Your New Year’s Resolution Hurdle but Ballyadam had to fight hard for success under Rachael Blackmore. Trained by Henry de Bromhead, the nine-year-old was last seen winning in the summer of 2023 and locked horns with Saint Sam to prevail by half a length at 7-2. “It’s great to get his head in front. He’s been a very consistent horse and always runs his race,” said Robbie Power, assistant to De Bromhead. “I’ve no idea where he is going next but it’s nice to get his head back in front.” Gordon Elliott’s Shannon Royale continued the promising start he has made to his career over fences when winning the Your Free Entry Sponsored By Tote Ireland Beginners’ Chase. The Robcour-owned bay finished second by small margins on his first two chasing starts, coming home behind talented horses both times and acquitting himself well. At 2-1 under Jordan Gainford, this time he made all of the running throughout the three-mile affair, and though he did not always jump fluently, he was still able to secure a two-and-a-quarter-length victory
Horse Racing Sainte Lucie Willie Mullins Punchestown Racing Debut
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Irish 7s star Mullins scores debut hat-trick as Connacht blow away ZebreThe latest sports news from The42.ie in 60 seconds
Read more »
'Future Gold Cup horse' to make chasing debut for Willie Mullins at FairyhouseClosutton maestro expects big things from the JP McManus-owned 2024 JCB Triumph Hurdle winner
Read more »
James’s Gate sheds maiden tag over hurdles at PunchestownWillie Mullins dominates rest of Tuesday’s card with four winners
Read more »
McManus Weighs Options for Top Horses After Punchestown SuccessJockey McManus, following the success of his horses in the John Durkan Memorial Steeplechase, is now considering future race plans. Racing manager Frank Berry stated that no final decisions have been made for the upcoming King George VI Chase and Savills Chase.
Read more »
Willie Mullins blown away by horse's performance: 'He could be anything'The trainer looks to have another star hurdler on his hands
Read more »
Glory for Willie Mullins with Grade Two win in CorkThe latest sports news from The42.ie in 60 seconds
Read more »