Runcok secures brace of winners for Mullins Runcok made virtually all in the second split of the maiden hurdle at Punchestown to bring up a quick-fire double for Willie Mullins. The 6/4 favourite had all bar Grey Pharoh burned off between the last two flights, but the pursuer was definitely closer turning in. A good jump at the last saw Runcok land in stride which helped him on the long run-in. He galloped on resolutely to beat the gambled-on Grey Pharoh (7/4) by a length and a-half. Free Flow was some 25 lengths adrift of the runner-up in third at 12/1. Paul Townend said: “He shows us plenty at home, but I suppose he had been disappointing on the track. “Maybe getting his head in front in a hurdle will help him now, he’s a brilliant jumper. It was a good opportunity for him today. “He loved jumping and an obstacle will definitely bring him on.” Additional reporting by Gary Carson
