Mullins on Pigsback with 1st and 3rd

It didn't prove easy to get the large field for the Grade B Pigsback.com Handicap Chase on their way but after going off a couple of minutes behind time Cadmium was the one to come back fastest to lead home a Willie Mullins first and third at Punchestown.

Travelling and jumping well, Danny Mullins' mount scampered away from two out and despite a sloppy leap at the last he still had eight lengths in hand over Coeur Joyeux (Philip and Luke Dempsey).

Coeur Joyeux is owned by J P McManus and he also had the third home, Cadmium's stable companion, Bon Papa

"He was a horse coming in here with limited experience but when you have limited experience you're also unexposed," said Danny Mullins.

"I said to the owners going out that I thought he had a good chance. His novice form was good and it's been a good year overall.

"I missed a little bit of time with injury but to be a part of the Willie Mullins team at Punchestown - sure what can I say - it's what dreams are made of.

"To get on the scoreboard is great.

"We went a good gallop. This fella was keen over the first few to get on with it. I was quite happy down the back when the lads went on about it.

"I was able to tuck in behind them. His jumping brought him there probably a bit sooner than I wanted but I travelled well to the second last.

"Once I was over that I let him gallop to the last - I got in a little tight to it - but he was very clever for a novice - and he ran away an easy winner - fantastic."

Willie Mullins is back nearly 74,000 Euros in front in the championship race now.

He said: "He was very good, and obviously learned over his last few runs. Danny got a fantastic tune out of him. Very pleased for him and for the Supreme Horse Racing Club. He'll probably stay at this job on good ground and do all the Festivals."

(AM & EM)