Gary Carson
No fuss double for Mullins and Walsh
Annie Power gets it wrong at the last
© Photo Healy Racing
Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh completed a quick double in the Ricci colours when Annie Power cruised to success in the mares hurdle at Clonmel.
The Shirocco mare was sent off a 1/3 shot to maintain her unbeaten record and had things in control turning for home in the two-mile event.
Dressedtothenines tried hard to stay in touch down the straight but was always second best.
Odds-on punters had a slight scare at the final flight where Annie Power was untidy but it didn't halt her momentum as she went on to score by six-and-a-half lengths on the bridle.
The winner is now unbeaten in five and has claimed a bumper and two hurdles since being bought out of Jim Bolger's yard.
“She was taking on more experienced mares today and did it well,” said Mullins.
“I think she handles all types of ground and that's good experience for her jumping around at that speed.
“The last was the only mistake she made and she'll learn a lot from that.
"She's entered at Cheltenham but I think we'll probably keep her at home – there's a good mares race at Fairyhouse (Grade 1 Mares Novice Hurdle).
“We think quite a lot of her and she could be anything. She could also be a real good chasing mare in time.”
(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)