Mullins and Townend strike first on Cheltenham Day 4 with Vauban

The Rich Ricci-owned gelding took the Grade One JCB Triumph Hurdle.

Jockey Paul Townend celebrates on Vauban after winning the JCB Triumph Hurdle during day four of the Cheltenham Festival at Cheltenham Racecourse. Picture  David Davies/PA Wire for the Jockey Club. 

Willie Mullins and Paul Townend struck first on the final day of the 2022 Cheltenham Festival when Vauban confirmed himself the leading juvenile hurdler in these islands with a stylish display in the Grade One JCB Triumph Hurdle.

The Rich Ricci-owned gelding travelled a touch keenly behind the modest pace but sat in a handy position from the outset. As the leaders began to make their way across to the standside rails in the homestraight, Townend was alert to the possibility of getting caught behind a wall of horses. He gave his mount a squeeze and the instant turn of pace to run into the gap was most impressive.