sportbible
WILLIE MULLINS has unveiled a ‘monstrous’ new talent – who has quickly emerged as the favourite for the County Hurdle following his impressive debut performance.
Wealthy owners Joe and Marie Donnelly seem to have another exciting prospect in Kitzbuhel.
Likely named after the charming Alpine town in Austria, Kitzbuhel displayed remarkable ability on his first outing for Mullins at Punchestown on Tuesday.
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Clad in the iconic black and white silks associated with champions like Al Boum Photo, State Man, and Sir Gino, Kitzbuhel easily triumphed over the 146-rated 6-4 favourite Colonel Mustard at level weights.
Backed at 3-1 with Paul Townend in the saddle, Kitzbuhel took the initiative early and pulled away from his seasoned rival to win the 2m½f hurdle by three-and-three-quarters lengths.
At just four years old, he stands as the latest star emerging from France.
This country is renowned for producing ready-to-race hurdlers, as demonstrated by former Triumph winners Vauban and Majborough.
Kitzbuhel joined Mullins’ Closutton yard after winning one of his three races across the Channel before being acquired by bloodstock agent Harold Kirk.
He certainly appeared to be a potential champion on debut, living up to the hype surrounding the Donnellys’ other newly emerging hurdling star, Anzadam.
William Hill bookmakers quickly adjusted their odds following Kitzbuhel’s first outing for Mullins.
They promptly set him as a 10-1 favourite for the County Hurdle – a race famously won in 2022 by the now 169-rated State Man off a mere 141.
Interestingly, Colonel Mustard finished third in that same event.
Betting fans were left buzzing after Kitzbuhel’s performance.
One remarked: “What a monstrous performance from Kitzbuhel! He’s only a 4-year-old, and he convincingly defeated a 146-rated Colonel Mustard on debut for Willie Mullins.”
Another fan commented: “Incredible horse, impressive display. We will definitely be seeing more of him!”
Meanwhile, jockey Townend offered a glimpse into the future, stating after the race: “He was extremely professional.
“I believe Kitzbuhel will handle longer distances; he surprised me with how he accelerated into the straight.”
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