Extra trip no problem for Glens

It was smooth as you like as Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh completed a double in the opening two races at Punchestown. Glens Melody landed odds of 8/13 in the Punchestown Annual Membership #95 Hurdle to add to the Closutton gains in the first with Analifet

Walsh was happy to let the action unfold in front of him in this small field affair. The betting said Glen Melody's main danger was King Shabra but his jumping let him down badly (going to the left throughout) and he finished a well-beaten last of the four.

Meanwhile the high-class well-related previous Grade 1 winner, Glens Melody headed Dushybeag before the last before, easing on to a three and three parts of a length victory.

Mullins divulged: "The two miles six didn't seem to be any problem for her and I think she could go out to three miles.

"The fact that we can go out in trip gives her more options.

"She'll be staying over hurdles as the owner (and breeder, Fiona McStay from Warrenpoint, County Down) is not keen to go chasing.

"I'll have to have a look at the programme and decide where we go."

Glens Melody got a 20/1 first show quote for the World Hurdle with Paddy Power.

Patrick O.Brady, trainer of King Shabra, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his charge hung left in running and was subsequently found to have struck into a foreleg.

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined King Shabra, trained by Patrick O.Brady, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to have struck into his right fore leg mid tendon area during this race.

(AM & EM)