Bachasson returns to winning ways with magnificent round of jumping at Clonmel

Bachasson made his first start over fences since falling in the 2018 Gold Cup a winning one, when slamming the Grade 1-winning Death Duty in the feature conditions chase at Clonmel.

The Willie Mullins-trained nine-year-old, now the winner of 11 of his 21 starts under rules, put in some magnificent leaps under Paul Townend before drawing readily clear of his four rivals at the line.

Having been contested for the lead by Death Duty and Discordantly, Edward O'Connell's imposing grey went round with his ears pricked.

Townend said afterwards: ""He had the mark to do it and he was entitled to do it like that. Remember, he lined up in a Gold Cup two years ago and we're a long way from that now.

Bachasson and Paul Townend in the winner's enclosure after their Clonmel successCredit: Alain Barr

"He's a really quick jumper and makes lengths everywhere which is a great help. You can just let him away and let him do his own thing. He winged the first and was great after that."

The 4-6 favourite finished 12 lengths clear of Death Duty, with the Joseph O'Brien-trained Mortal two and a half lengths back in third.

It was duly announced after the 2m4f chase that racing in Ireland was to cease from midnight due to the coronavirus crisis.

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