Hercules completes treble for Mullins

Black Hercules maintained his unbeaten record when readily landing the P J Foley Memorial bumper to complete a treble on the day for Willie Mullins.

The highly-regarded son of Heron Island won a point-to-point in good style at Dromahane last year, and made a winning start under rules at Punchestown last month. Niamh Machine ensured a good gallop going off well clear but was collared before the straight, and the 5/6 favourite took control from two furlongs out.

Patrick Mullins’ mount drew right away to beat Montys Meadow by eight and a half lengths, with Stack The Deck in third.

Willie Mullins said, “He’s a good horse and I’d imagine he’ll be entered for the Cheltenham Bumper. He might take in one more race before Cheltenham but I’d like to keep him on softer ground. He’s a big horse and a chaser in the making.”

Patrick Mullins said, “I love him and I suppose I’m biased because I bought him, we broke him and have him since he was a young horse. He has the looks, he’s a lovely temperament and he’s lots of ability so I’m just glad he’s doing well for Mr Wylie.

“He’s not slow and if Dad sends him over to Cheltenham he’s certainly good enough to go.”

Paddy Power make him an 8/1 chance (from 10’s) for the Cheltenham Bumper, while German firm RaceBets also cut him to 8/1 (from 14/1) and joint favourite with stablemate Shaneshill.

RaceBets also go 3/1 about Willie Mullins training the winner of the Weatherbys Champion Bumper.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes