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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

Turcagua initiates a great day for Mullins

Sun 11th Dec 2016, 16:29

Turcagua is clear at the last under Ruby WalshTurcagua is clear at the last under Ruby Walsh
© Photo Healy Racing

On what proved a great afternoon for owner Rich Ricci and trainer Willie Mullins, Turcagua justified good support in the Buy Your 2017 Annual Membership Maiden Hurdle at Punchestown.

The six-year-old grey gelding, available as big as 5/2 overnight and backed on course from 6/4 into 1/1, made virtually all under Ruby Walsh and kept on well from before the final flight.

The French import, who won a Navan bumper 12 months ago and was third to Monalee on his hurdles debut here in the fog last month, kept on strongly to beat Champagne Classic by nine and a half lengths. Toe The Line a Listed winner on the Flat, was a further length and a half away in third.

Turcagua was introduced at 25/1 for the Neptune with Betfair, Paddy Power and Boylesports, while the latter firm quote him at 20/1 for the Albert Bartlett.

Mullins said, “The trip was no problem, and he can go further in trip. He’s a fine, big chaser for the future. A clear passage today was a big help. He may run over Christmas but we’ll see how he comes out of it.”

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.