Progressive Airlie Beach sets early standard for Cheltenham novice mares

Willie Mullins had already received one surprise this week when all of the Gigginstown residents checked out of his Closutton establishment, and he got another one here – this time unwrapping a valuable gift.

"She just keeps on surprising me, she keeps pulling more out and improving," said the champion trainer, referring to Airlie Beach, who made every yard to land the Listed Pat Walsh Memorial EBF Mares Hurdle by six lengths.

"I am really delighted with that," added Mullins. "We don't know whether she'll handle winter ground but she keeps on doing everything we ask of her and you love that. We'll look at the mares' novice programme."