Fourth Grade 1 For Son Of Walk In The Park

Facile Vega (6g Walk In The Park - Quevega, by Robin Des Champs) joined an illustrious honour roll when recording his fourth top-flight success in the Grade 1 Champion Novice Hurdle at the Punchestown Festival.

Willie Mullins’ charge was sent off favourite for the Grade 1 which had previously been won by the likes of Jezki (Milan), Faugheen and Douvan (Walk In The Park). Ridden prominently by Paul Townend, the bay was travelling well when leading at the second last and was pushed clear on the run-in to score by seven and a half lengths.

“I've always thought the world of him and think he has huge ability,” Mullins later said. “I look forward to him going over fences next season. We'll pop him over a fence maybe next week and put him out to grass and then come back over fences next season.”

Owned and bred by the Hammer and Trowel Syndicate, Facile Vega was unbeaten last season, including in two Grade 1 bumpers. After an impressive hurdle bow in December, the son of Walk In The Park landed another Grade 1 at the Leopardstown Christmas Festival.