Mullins hoping Stars shines Willie Mullins wants to see his consistent performer Thousand Stars round off his campaign with victory in the Gras Savoye Hipcover Prix La Barka at Auteuil on Sunday. Although without success since landing last year's County Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, the grey has done fantastically well since stepping up to the highest level. The seven-year-old finished fourth in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, was beaten just a neck in the Aintree Hurdle and most recently chased home top-class stablemate Hurricane Fly at Punchestown. Thousand Stars disappointed in France 12 months ago, but champion trainer Mullins expects better this time around. "Thousand Stars has had a marvellous season and it would be great if he could round it off with a win," the trainer told his website www.wpmullins.com. "He was still in contention at the second last before fading in this race last year. "The ground was heavy on that occasion and we think that he will perform much better on the drier ground this time. "He comes out on top in the French ratings but this a very hot race and he will have to be at the top of his game if he is to win this valuable prize." Mullins has a strong hand in the Grade Two contest, also saddling this year's County Hurdle winner Final Approach and smart handicapper Dorset Square. "Final Approach has improved all season and will like this ground. He is a good jumper but we will have to see how he copes with this new trip," Mullins continued. "Dorset Square ran well at Punchestown and will appreciate this trip. He may not be up to a task like this but the French weight scale suits him and he might just run into a place." Paul John Gilligan is represented by stable star Berties Dream, last seen finishing sixth behind legendary stayer Big Buck's in the World Hurdle.
