Klassical Dream repeats Stayers success

Klassical Dream registered consecutive wins in Punchestown's Ladbrokes Champion Stayers Hurdle today, justifying 11/10 favouritism to win for trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Paul Townend.

The head-strong eight year old was Ruby Walsh's final Cheltenham festival winner in the 2019 Supreme Novices Hurdle and today bagged a sixth Grade 1 win, when beating Ashdale Bob by a length and a quarter.

Trainer Mullins has won six of the seven top-level races contested this week and said “Paul (Townend) got him lovely and settled and relaxed at the start.

“Having so few runners in the race was a big help as he was able to settle him on the outside and keep him relaxed. The horse races so much better when he does that.

“He gets a bit upset but he was very relaxed today in the parade ring, at the start and during the race. He's maturing as he gets older.”

He added “I'd imagine we'll go the same route next year. I don't think we're going to go over fences, I think it's easier to keep him sounder that way.

“As you can see he's so busy and every time we've run over fences we've had trouble with him.”

Quotes from Gary Carsons