Aranleigh takes Punchestown opener

The Tony Mullins trained Aranleigh showed great battling qualities after he took the opening Florida Pearl Grade 3 Chase by a short head at Punchestown today.

Mark Walsh who was prominent for most aboard the Insan gelding took up the lead travelling well after 3 out and kept on well from the last to hold off the late challenge of Coolcashin by a short head.

The Michael Bowe trained Coolcashin was the unlucky loser of the race as he was badly hampered by Clan Tara after he made a bad mistake three out.

Winning trainer Tony Mullins said afterwards: “His jumping kept him right in the race. He seems to be an excellent jumper. He idled a bit in front today.”

“From what he shows at home, there’s a lot more to come but he has to prove that in public now. He will probably go to Leopardstown at Christmas next.”

“He’s improved from Wexford but to be at the top level he’ll have to improve again but I think he might.”

“His pedigree suggests he’s a two miler but they all say he’s a stayer.”