Top Othe Ra and David Mullins (nearest) lands over the last hurdle with Yaha Fizz© Photo Healy Racing
Top Othe Ra overcame worries about the ground to claim the Irish Daily Mirror Handicap Hurdle at Punchestown.
David Mullins made a perfect return to action on his first ride since suffering a fractured collarbone at Cheltenham late last month.
The 4/1 shot, trained by the jockey's father Tom, came to challenge front-runner Yaha Fizz going to the last and got the better of that rival by a length on the run-in.
The winner was following up a win at Down Royal earlier in the month.
“I was worried about the ground because Paul Townend said that it was heavier than it was the last day in Down Royal,” said Mullins.
“I went off him then but other than that I fancied him beforehand. I just didn't like to hear Paul say it was deeper here than in Down Royal.
“He's a great little horse and as tough as nails. There are a few races between now and Christmas and if I think he's holding his form I'll keep going until Christmas.
“There are race in England, a good race in Ascot. I probably won't pull him out again in Fairyhouse in two weeks time.
“He was in the Greatwood today. I was going for better ground but it went soft over there. So we decided to come back here.
“The long-term plan is the Galway Hurdle. He likes Galway and I like Galway!
“He travelled well today and David said he went on the ground which was a bit of a surprise.”
