What Path and Paul Townend © Photo Healy Racing
What Path followed up a maiden win at Tipperary just over a fortnight ago when readily justifying favouritism in the Kilbegganraces.com Novice Hurdle.
The Mags Masterson-owned gelding, sent off the 6/5 market leader, had his task eased in the absence of both The Short Go (stone bruise) and Jumping Jet (in season) while second favourite Knockanard Lady was pulled up quickly three out.
Willie Mullins’ charge took control approaching the final flight in this three-mile event and kept on strongly on the run-in to easily beat Stuzzikini by 11 lengths. Valleyoftheeagles finished a further seven and a half lengths adrift in third.
Winning rider Paul Townend said, “He’s a big horse for around here and is going to be better when he gets a fence in front of him. He loved the trip and loved the ground.
“When he meets a hurdle wrong he’s inclined to gallop out through it but when you ask him and he stands off he has loads of scope.
“I’d imagine he will keep going and maybe he could go to Galway if the ground is suitable.”
