Paul Townend won his first Irish jump jockeys title after a ding-dong battle with Davy Russell. Russell was unable to make enough headway on the final day of Punchestown's festival as Townend watched on with his arm in a sling following a collarbone injury.
The new champion was presented with his title by Taoiseach Enda Kenny at Punchestown.
Townend said: "It really went down to the wire and was very exciting. Davy is a very good rider and he could have won it today.
"I'm grateful to Willie (Mullins) for giving me the opportunities. I will be fit for the Galway festival in July. I might have a little celebration tonight!"
Enda Kenny also made presentations to Frank Berry representing JP McManus, the leading National Hunt owner for the season, Patrick Mullins the leading Qualified Rider and Bryan Cooper who won the top conditional jockeys crown.
