Cousin Vinny got his job done in professional style in the very stamina sapping conditions of the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Irish Racing Writers Novice Hurdle.
From the front under Patrick Mullins, the 2/7 chance had Realt Dubh and An Cathaoir Mor come to challenge in the straight and despite hitting the last, Cousin Vinny was ridden away to win his race on the run-in, accounting for Realt Dubh by three lengths.
Willie Mullins said of his Cheltenham bumper hero, now two from three over flights: "He jumped well apart from that fluff at the last. I think in the conditions it is hard for any horse to be impressive today. When they come into the straight, that headwind just stops you dead. He'll have one more run before we go to Cheltenham."
William Hill left Cousin Vinny unchanged at 5/1 for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle, a price he shares at the top of the market with Hurricane Fly. They were also unchanged at 7s about the Bob Back gelding for the Ballymore Properties Novice Hurdle. Cashmans also remain on their 9/2 mark about Cousin Vinny for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle. (EM)
