Racing:The highly-regarded So Young continued his fine start to the campaign with a routine victory in the Horse And Jockey Hotel Hurdle at Thurles. The Willie Mullins-trained French import was sent off favourite for Grade One novice hurdles at both of the big Festivals at Cheltenham and Punchestown in the spring, but failed to grab the glory.
Following a confidence-boosting comeback victory at Punchestown last month, the five-year-old was sent off the 1-8 favourite to follow up in this Listed contest and the result was never in doubt.
Ruby Walsh set the pace throughout the two-mile journey and with his opponents toiling from the home turn, So Young came home hard on the bridle to record a six-length win over Noras Fancy.
Mullins said: “He did it nicely. He’ll go for races with a trip and will probably get an entry for the World Hurdle — that’s the direction I’m going.
“As the ground dries out he should need a trip. There is a Grade Two at Naas towards the end of January. That’s a possible but I may have others for that also.”