Saturnas on a different planet to his rivals

Saturnas showed plenty of ability on his Irish debut for Willie Mullins as he powered home in the two mile maiden hurdle at Naas.

The French import, who won on the flat at Machecoul in April 2015, dictated the pace throughout under Ruby Walsh.

The five-year-old gelding eased away from the pursuers between the last two flights and soared over the last to put the seal on a victory by eight lengths.

His price hit a peak of 7/4 in the morning before being returned the 11/8 favourite. Valgor Du Ronceray (25/1) kept on for second with Brian O'Connell in the plate for Joseph O'Brien.

He was half a length in front of third-placed Tamlough Boy who was backed at the track from 12/1 to 7/1.

“He’ll be a staying hurdler down the line,” Ruby Walsh said.

“He knew his job, jumped well and probably got it handy enough (in front). He’ll make a staying hurdler in time.”

Jockey Jody McGarvey was stood down with a shoulder injury after suffering a fall from Up For Discussion

Additional reporting by Gary Carson