Monkfish makes winning start to chasing career at Fairyhouse

Willie Mullins' charge was sent off the 1/3 favourite off the back of his win in the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham and produced an accomplished round of jumping under Paul Townend.

He swept past long time leader and eventual third Sams Profile (5/1) three out and was still on the bridle going to the last.

At that stage stablemate Ontheropes (16/1) threatened to throw down a meaningful challenge but he could never lay a glove on the winner who went on to score by four lengths.

Sky Bet make Monkfish a 4/1 chance for the RSA at Cheltenham, Betfair and Paddy Power are 9/2 from 8s.

"That was an excellent start for Monkfish who further enhanced the form of this year’s Albert Bartlett. After that performance we now go 4/1 from 6/1 for the RSA at Cheltenham in March," said Michael Shinners, Head of Sports PR Michael Shinners.

“I couldn’t ask for any more today. First time over fences all you want is a clear round and get him to do things right. There was one semblance of mistake at the first ditch but you couldn’t knock him,” said the winning rider.

“I gave him a squeeze going to the last and was delighted. I couldn’t have asked for more. He’s filled out a lot and matured plenty over the summer and the dream is still alive.

“He’s a good horse and has a bit of class. Fingers crossed we can keep him right. It’s obviously going to get tougher form here but hopefully he’ll cope.”

Mullins added: “Monkfish was very impressive. Paul was pleased with him and I had to be as well. He’ll aim for Christmas.

“He’s grown up a lot since he was beaten over hurdles here about a year ago. His jumping was very accurate and it looks like fences will be his job.”