Landrover Champion Novice Hurdle
The second Grade One race of Punchestown Festival Day Four, brings together someof the best young hurdlers around. It is a 2m 4f race and many of these will have staying qualities. The race was won last year by Tranquil Sea, trained by Edward O'Grady and ridden by AJ McNamara. Ruby Walsh has ridden four of the last six winners of the race.
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Landrover Champions Novice Hurdle
| Number | Horse | Age - Weight | Jockey | Trainer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China Rock | 06-11-10 | N Madden | M Morris |
| 2 | Cousin Vinny | 06-11-10 | P Mullins | W Mullins |
| 3 | Mikael D'Haguenet | 05-11-10 | R Walsh | W Mullins |
| 4 | Oscar Dan Dan | 07-11-10 | D Russell | T Mullins |
| 5 | Roberto Goldback | 07-11-10 | B Geraghty | J Harrington |
| 6 | Western Charmer | 07-11-10 | P Flood | D Hughes |
| 7 | Bouggler | 04-11-01 | J Doyle | E Lavelle |
| 8 | Trenchant | 04-11-01 | R Thornton | A King |
Form
This is expected to be a big field with an open betting market. We take a look at a few of those who should feature.
Mikael D'Haguenet
Trained by the top man, Willie Mullins, this gelding is unbeaten in five starts since arriving from France. His wins include the Ballymore Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham. He must be in with a great chance with Ruby Walsh on board
Cousin Vinny
Also trained by Willie Mullins, he will be looking to restore a flagging reputation earned when winning two Grade One bumpers last season, including the 2008 Champion Bumper at Cheltenham. He was not at his best when fifth in the Supreme Novices Hurdle at this years Cheltenham Festival and before that he unseated his rider when looking likley to win the Grade One Deloitte Hurdle at this course. He is not to be ruled out.
