Mullins and Townend double up with Jade De Grugy

Jade De Grugy stamped her class all over the Grade 3 Quevega Mares' Hurdle at Punchestown and saw her Cheltenham Festival odds cut.

The 5/6 favourite was making her seasonal reappearance after winning the Grade 1 mares' novices' hurdle in Fairyhouse at the end of March. She had to give weight away to all of her rivals over this extended two-miles-four-furlongs.

The six-year-old took closer order before three out and travelled smoothly between horses to improve into second at the next.

She was on good terms with herself as she soon drew level with Gaoth Chuil and readily asserted before the final flight. A good jump saw her land in stride and she kicked on six lengths clear of Mousey Brown (40/1).

She brought up a double for Willie Mullins and Paul Townend who were earlier successful with High Class Hero in the beginners' chase.

The Raceday Stewards informed Charles Byrnes, trainer of Aodhan May that a repeat performance of his charge, who refused at the third last, may render the animal liable for suspension.

“It was a lovely run, it was a nice comeback to racing,” said Mullins.

“Annie Power won this race before winning the Champion Hurdle a few years ago and it has been won in the past by a mare (Black Tears) before winning the Mares' Hurdle at Cheltenham.

“She had worked nicely at home and I was very happy with her coming here. She showed me today what she had showed me at home.

“I think she’ll improve a fair bit for the race, which leaves us in a good position going to Cheltenham.

“I’ve no ground issues with her. Carrying the weight she carried today against nice opposition, I think is a good sign.”

Paddy Power cut Jade De Grugy from 9/2 to 5/2 for the Mares' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival (non runner no bet). The bookmaker has Brighterdaysahead as the 8/15 favourite for this market.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson