Five up for Walsh on Slicker

Ruby Walsh made it a remarkable five from five at Punchestown today when taking the two-mile handicap hurdle on City Slicker

Walsh made all on the free-running son of King’s Theatre and he found plenty in the closing stages to post a comprehensive four-length success.

Willie Mullins, saddling his fourth winner of the day, nominated the Ladbroke Hurdle at Ascot as a possible target for the JP McManus-owned gelding after his cosy success.

The 7/4 favourite was making his first start since taking his maiden hurdle here back in May.

“He’s a tough horse to train and to ride. I left it up to Ruby what to do. If he settled, well and good, but he decided to go on with him,” said Mullins.

“He looks like he’ll jump a fence in time. He’s a very slick jumper and there are more days in him.

“If he doesn’t like it heavy we’ll put him away until the spring but at the minute we’ll go on to Christmas. The race at Ascot (Ladbroke Hurdle) is the one that comes to mind.

“He’s not a horse that will run very often because of his temperament. He seems to favour right-handed tracks.”