Lot Of Joy produced a commanding front-running performance to claim the Listed Frontline Security Grabel Mares Hurdle at Punchestown for Willie Mullins and Paul Townend.
The six-year-old, a 6-4 favourite, set a brisk early pace before allowing her rivals to close the gap. However, she powered away after turning for home, finishing four lengths ahead of runner-up Risk Belle.
Mullins praised her progress, saying:
"She enjoyed being left alone in front and settled better today. We weren’t sure she’d handle this ground, but it’s good to know she can. We’re considering a step up to two and a half miles at Leopardstown."
Both Betfair and Paddy Power introduced Lot Of Joy into their Cheltenham Festival Mares’ Hurdle market at 20-1 following the performance.
Stumptown Thrives in Risk of Thunder Chase
Gavin Cromwell’s Stumptown continued his cross-country success with a gritty victory in the Colm Quinn BMW Risk Of Thunder Chase. Partnered by Keith Donoghue, the 3-1 shot led from the front, holding off Coko Beach and beating Three By Two by nearly three lengths.
"He loves this sphere and has taken to it brilliantly," Cromwell said. "We’re aiming for the cross-country race at Cheltenham in December."
The Big Westerner Battles to Maiden Hurdle Win
Henry de Bromhead’s The Big Westerner displayed determination to edge out Argento Boy in the I.N.H. Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle at 4-1. Bought for £120,000 after a point-to-point win, the five-year-old mare fought back strongly under Darragh O’Keeffe.
De Bromhead remarked:
"She’s a big, scopey mare who will handle festival ground and winter conditions. We’re delighted with her progress and hope she’ll continue improving."
De Bromhead’s team remains in fine form, with a promising crop of young horses showing early-season promise.