Proactif Walsh scores on Mullins' Triumph contender

Willie Mullins introduced two interesting French recruits in the opener at Fairyhouse's rescheduled fixture, the  Tote Guarantee, Never Beaten By SP Hurdle.

Both Proactif (15/8), ridden by Mark Walsh for J.P. McManus, and Paul Townend's mount Macho Man sent off the 11/8 favourite, had been successful on their sole starts at Auteuil in the autumn and it was the former who came out on top in a one-two for the multiple champion trainer.

It was a good performance from Proactif as the son of Masked Marvel got no peace on the front end from Combs but saw off that one before having enough in reserve to hold the market leader, who moved into second before the last, by two and three-quarter lengths. 

It was Walsh's first winner since Monday's announcement that he will be replaced by Harry Cobden as McManus' retained rider in Ireland at the beginning of next season.

Racing manager Frank Berry said “He’s a grand big horse. Mark said he jumped well, but was still a little bit green sometimes in front. He galloped and jumped, we’re very happy with him.

“Knowing Willie, it (DRF) will probably be a bit soon. He’s had a run in France and learned a little bit today. You could only be happy with him.

“He stays and jumps, he looks the ideal type (for the Triumph Hurdle). Touch wood, he stays in one piece.

“I thought they were going to get to him going to the last but, in fairness, he got to the line well.”

Proactif was cut into 7-1 second favourite, from 12/1, for the Triumph Hurdle by Paddy Power.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson