Vinny back in business
17:18, 22 Feb 2012
Cousin Vinny made a winning return from almost two years on the sidelines in the Festival Free Upgrade Offer Ends Today Hurdle at Punchestown.
The Willie Mullins-trained 2008 Champion Bumper had not been seen in competitive action since finishing behind stablemate Quevega at the 2010 Punchestown Festival, but was still sent off the 8-11 favourite.
Ruby Walsh eased his mount to the front between the final two obstacles and while he fluffed his lines at the last, he soon recovered to beat Won In The Dark by three and a quarter lengths.
"He showed his class when he straightened up going to the last and had a change of gear. I was amazed at the speed he showed and how he has retained it is extraordinary," said Mullins.
"We'll find another conditions race for him now, something similar, and will be aimed more towards the Punchestown Festival."