Aramon and Paul Townend beat Petit Mouchoir and Rachael Blackmore© Photo Healy Racing
Former Grade One scorer Aramon impressively gave favourite Petit Mouchoir 11Ibs and a beating in the featured Kevin McManus Bookmaker Grimes Hurdle at Tipperary.
In this Grade Three heat, on his first outing since a County Hurdle runner-up placing at the Cheltenham Festival in March, 9/2 second market choice Aramon was confidently ridden by Paul Townend.
When Petit Mouchoir took over from pace-setter Effernock Fizz (a 250/1 chance) between the last two, it briefly looked promising for favourite backers.
However the grey, without success since 2017, was soon attacked and out-speeded by the Willie Mullins-trained Aramon.
Two lengths split them at the line and there were six and a half lengths back to Wonder Laish (33s into 12s) in third.
"I suppose he did well as he wasn't really well treated at the weights. He looked big in the parade ring and hopefully he can improve again from it,” said Townend after his first ride back since the return to action.
"He'll have plenty of weight wherever he goes but I'm sure the Galway Hurdle could be a possibility for him."
Gordon Elliott, trainer of Chosen Mate reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his charge ran flat and was out paced throughout.
(TW & EM)
