'It'll take a long time to sink in' - Jody Townend celebrates first festival winner onboard Bambino Fever in the Champion Bumper

Jody Townend celebrated her first Cheltenham Festival victory as Bambino Fever came home strongest to land the Champion Bumper for Willie Mullins.

Townend, who is the younger sister of Paul Townend, registered the landmark success as the five-year-old mare travelled well to get the better of John McConnell-trained Heads Up, who finished second. 

It was also another significant winner for Mullins, who extended his record in the race to 14. It also maintained Bambino Fever's perfect record as she followed up her runaway Grade 2 bumper score at the Dublin Racing Festival last month.

The Thomas Cooper-trained Shuttle Diplomacy finished a further length and a half behind the Sean Bowen-ridden Heads Up, while 150-1 shot Caballero Cliff and El Cairos filled fourth and fifth respectively. Kalypso'chance, who was sent off 5-2 favourite, was 11th.

What the winning trainer said

Willie Mullins: "She had two runs before this and she was very good both times. Everyone was keen to leave Jody on her, which was a great decision as she gave her a fabulous ride. She was in the right position at all stages and she has a clock in her head.

"I didn’t say anything on how to ride the horse as I always leave Jody to ride her own races and she was very good."

Bambino Fever extender her 100 per cent record with success in the bumperCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

What the winning rider said

Jody Townend: "I'm beyond cloud nine. I can't believe it and it'll take a long time to sink in. I got a perfect position and I couldn't believe it when I jumped off and got where I wanted to be. Usually it doesn't happen in that race.

"As she turned down the hill she jumped on the bridle for me and it couldn't have gone any better. I was pushed quite wide and I didn't want to run into any to trouble, but even when that happened she was travelling well and it didn't affect her. 

"She's got a heart of gold and she has a special place for me now. I've grown up watching Paul ride winners round here and I'm really happy."

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