Willie Mullins vows to defend title with gusto as Sandown celebrates a true champion

The race was won by a strong contender, who had decided to join in only after the closing stages had begun. It was his first win, with many more expected in the future. The atmosphere at Sandown was not filled with soul-searching and introspection as might be expected, but rather a celebratory one, similar to a rare Grade 1 prize not won by Mullins. The victory was celebrated despite him being a trainer based in Ireland who had topped their table.