Townend steps up to lead Mullins domination

FOUR days can be a long time in horse racing – a point admirably highlighted by the complete turnaround in fortunes experienced by Willie Mullins and Paul Townend at this year’s Cheltenham Festival.

Townend came in for some criticism on Tuesday following his ride on Benie Des Dieux in the Mares’ Hurdle behind Honeysuckle, with Ruby Walsh one of those voicing an opinion.

Townend, of course, replaced Walsh upon his retirement. But Mullins has never doubted his man and after an incredible Friday which saw the Closutton maestro win the first four races on the card and have the second in the fifth – including another Magners Gold Cup with Al Boum Photo – Cheltenham punters now have a new darling.

Townend showcased several different attributes on his winners, needing to be at his strongest on Monkfish in the Albert Bartlett, nursing around the inexperienced Burning Victory to fortuitously win the Triumph before getting the tactics spot on in the big one.

Mullins said: “I’m delighted for my stable jockey. He’s put his stamp on Cheltenham as our first jockey. Stepping up from being understudy to Ruby is tough, but Paul has more than risen to it.

“Tuesday seems a long time ago, but I can still remember it!

“Paul has really stamped his authority in Ireland this season and he’s just won a second Gold Cup.”

Barry Geraghty-ridden Saint Roi was Mullins’ other winner, delivering in style in the Randox Health County Handicap Hurdle.