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Punchestown 2024
Punchestown 2024
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Review navan 26th Feb
Davy Russell doubled up for the second day in succession at Navan on For Bill and Tharawaat his only two rides at the County Meath venue.
After winning both maiden hurdles on Friday, Russell partnered the prolific For Bill to victory in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Chase, while Tharawaat obliged in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Novice Chase.
With only serious rival Morning Supreme a non-runner, For Bill (1-6) had no trouble winning her ninth race from just 12 races for Michael Winters, who is eyeing a contest a Limerick for the easy winner.
"She will go to Limerick next on March 13 (Grade Three Dawn Run Novice Chase) that's the plan," said Winters.
"Davy said he was delighted with her. In fairness she is a great jumper, that ground wouldn't be the nicest - it's loose, deep and tacky."
"Maybe next year they will make a Gold Cup for mares!"
On paper Tharawaat looked set for a match with Western Charmer but when that rival came down three fences from home, Gordon Elliott's 9-10 favourite could coast home in his own time.
"I think the blinkers made a difference. He was sweeter today," said Elliott.
"Davy was very happy with him. He's got an entry in the four-miler and I'll have to talk to Michael and Eddie (O'Leary, the owners) and see what the story is.
"He is in a few of the handicaps as well so we'll see what happens."
Willie Mullins was earlier on the mark with C'Est Ca who finally opened his account over fences in the Larry Rowen Memorial Beginners Chase.
Sent off the 7-4 favourite, he only had Doc O'Donnell to contend with from the second-last and drew clear to win by eight lengths.
"It's not before time. I hope this is a good omen for Hurricane Fly as he races in the same colours (of owner George Creighton)," said Mullins.
"He got it all together today and he has more ability than he's been showing us."