Vedettariat rounds off great week for Mullins

Vedettariat rounded off a great week for trainer Willie Mullins and owner Rich Ricci when taking the John Lynch Carpets Kells EBF Novice Hurdle at Navan.

Paul Townend always had his mount prominent and he kept on well in the closing stages to post a length-and-a-quarter success at odds of 11/2.

11/8 favourite Fine Article came through late to grab the runner-up spot from Lord Scoundrel

"We got things our own way and were able to do what we wanted," said Townend.

"The penny has dropped a bit with him and he stayed at it well."

Harold Kirk added that the winner would now be aimed at Fairyhouse.

Townend reflected on a fine week at Cheltenham which yielding three winners for him: "I was happy enough with it! I enjoyed the win on Irish Cavalier and couldn't believe how well Wicklow Brave was going.

"I always thought he was a nice horse and he was off a nice mark. When things fall right he's a good horse.

"I was also delighted for Fiona (McStay) that Glens Melody held on."