Mourad sets sights on World Hurdle

Willie Mullins’ Mourad (4-9 favourite) has had no trouble in landing the odds in the Grade Two Galmoy Hurdle at Gowran.

One of the few respected threats to Big Buck’s when the World Hurdle comes around in March, the six-year-old did not need to come off the bridle.

Footy Facts and Powerstation helped set a generous gallop but Paul Townend was motionless as Mourad swept through the field to win by six lengths.

Paul Nolan’s mare Moskova ran on well to claim second but was never a threat to the winner.

“He seems to be improving and looks to be getting stronger with age,” said Mullins. “He did that on ground that I don’t think he particularly likes and he’ll be better on better ground. Paul was very cool on him. It’s looks like we are on track for the World Hurdle.”

After the race Stan James eased Big Buck’s from 8-13 to 4-6 and cut Mourad to 8s from 10s.

Stan James’ Charlie McCann said: “After Mourad’s facile win in the Galmoy Hurdle this afternoon and with progressive Grands Crus bidding to make the transition from handicapper to Pattern-race performer in the Cleeve Hurdle tomorrow perhaps the World Hurdle is not the one-horse race some would have us believe.

“Big Buck’s is now 4-6 from 8-13 for the hat-trick.”