Promising 3lbs claimer Paul Townend rode his second winner over fences at Thurles today, partnering Willie Mullins' Cooldine to win the opening www.thurlesraces.ie Beginners Chase.

Townend, deputising for the injured Ruby Walsh, was in front when fortunate to avoid a loose horse at the fourth last fence (which brought down third running Spring The Que , eventually staying on well for a 19 lengths win over Moskova

Afterwards Mullins reported "Paul (Townend) deserves his chance with Ruby injured and he had schooled Cooldine at home recently."

He added "Cooldine did it well and I was happy with his jumping, apart from a slight mistake three out. Hopefully he'll improve from that although the Drinmore Chase in a few weeks may be a little too much to ask him at this stage. We'll probably go for a winners' race next and take it from there."

Cashmans Bookmakers subsequently cut Cooldine to 10/1 (from 12/1) for the Sun Alliance Novice Chase following the win.