Joy for favourite backers in Listed mares' hurdle

The 6/4 favourite Lot of Joy bossed the Listed mares' hurdle at Punchestown from the front and ran out a decisive winner under Paul Townend.

In front after jumping the first and clear at halfway, the useful dual-purpose performer was given a breather at the end of the back straight and was joined by Feet Of A Dancer going to two out.

Pushed clear of that rival on the approach to the last, she stayed on well to score by four lengths as stablemate Risk Belle came through to finish second ahead of Feet Of A Dancer.

It was a third win over hurdles for the six-year-old half-sister to Irish St Leger winner Sonnyboyliston.

Both Betfair and Paddy Power introduced Lot Of Joy into their Cheltenham Festival Mares’ Hurdle market at 20-1.

Trainer Willie Mullins said: “I think she enjoyed being left alone in front and Paul was happy with her.

“She took her breathers and jumped better. She’s settling better.

“We didn’t think she would handle that sort of ground but it’s good to know that she’s able to handle it and we can continue with her. We were half thinking of putting her away.

“She could go to Leopardstown, and I wouldn’t mind stepping up to two and a half. She has to improve a bit but we’ll give her the opportunity.”

Quotes from Alan Magee