sportskeeda
WILLIE MULLINS observed one of his Grade 1-winning talents have his odds significantly reduced for the Cheltenham Festival after a ‘perfect’ return to action.
Dancing City impressed with his elite ability over hurdles last season, securing Grade 1 victories at Leopardstown, Aintree, and Punchestown.
On Tuesday, he proved he has maintained—if not enhanced—his skills over fences by winning a beginners chase at Punchestown.
The seven-year-old was the strong favorite, starting at 2-5 for the 2m7½f contest under Paul Townend.
He jumped remarkably well, validating his short odds and finishing one-and-a-half lengths ahead of Gordon Elliott’s Shannon Royale.
Paddy Power promptly revised his odds from 10-1 to 6-1 for the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase next March.
There was also a minor shift to 25-1 for Olympic Man, who finished fourth after a major mistake a few flights from home cost him a viable chance in the race.
While some bookmakers were less impressed with Dancing City’s seasonal debut and adjusted him to 7-1, one firm stayed firm at 10-1.
Dancing City’s stablemate from Closutton, Ballyburn, is currently the leading contender at a best-priced 5-1 for the 3m event.
After the race, Townend reflected on Dancing City’s performance: “I had to give him a nudge heading to the last to keep his concentration.
“However, when he sensed challengers coming from behind, he surged forward again and was determined not to be passed.
“Overall, it was a fantastic start; he was smart when needed and handled himself well, so I’m extremely satisfied.”
“I believe he’ll learn a lot from this experience, as our horses usually do, especially starting off over that distance. He had a bit of a blow, looked around, and then galloped out well beyond the line.”
Stay tuned for more updates.
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