Tarla makes it a winning start

French import Tarla made it a winning start in Ireland after she landed the I.T.B.A Fillies Scheme EBF Grade 3 Mares Hurdle under a fine ride by Paul Townend.

Townend who was always travelling well took up lead just after the last and kept on hands and heels to win by half a length.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins said afterwards: "My trip to Paris paid off. I went to Paris when Punchestown was called off due to frost here earlier in the year and that's when I bought this filly."

"She has shown us plenty at home and she looked good there. We bought her to go novice chasing but we might have to have a rethink after that."

"She may go to France, she's had a nice break since she came to us."