Townend looking to add to 2014 win in Gowran feature

When you think of horse racing and Kilkenny, the name Willie Mullins quickly springs to mind - but in the background is Willie’s number one stable jockey Paul Townend.

Townend previously won the Goffs Thyestes Chase for Mullins aboard On His Own in 2014 and it’s a race he looks forward to every year.

“I’ve been lucky enough to win the race in the past,” he said. “It wasn’t until I moved up here that I realised what a occasion it was for the local community.

“It’s a very prestigious race in the calendar and I’ve been lucky enough to win it as well as being placed in it a couple of times.”

On His Own went on to be placed in a Cheltenham Gold Cup after winning the Gowran showpiece and the Cork jockey feels that’s the type of horse you need to do well in the premier staying contest.

“The calibre of horse running in the Thyestes has always been extremely high and never as high as it is at the moment,” the champion jockey added.

“Willie’s brought some of his Gold Cup hopefuls here in the past when you look at On His Own and Djakadam so you certainly need a high quality horse to compete here.

“Franco De Port ran well in the race for me last year and then went on to be placed in the French Gold Cup so that’s the level you have to get up to.”

Townend also outlined what type of challenge Gowran Park offers.

“Gowran Park is a brilliant track which is always set up well and you are guaranteed for it to be safe ground, which is a good test of a horse.

“There is plenty of jumping and a long straight so the best horse usually wins.”