Townend talks up Asterion’s opening-race chances

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Paul Townend admits the “straightforward” Asterion Forlonge looks well suited to winning the opening race at this year’s Cheltenham Festival.

Townend is now the premier rider for Willie Mullins following Ruby Walsh’s retirement and he will be expected to saddle several winners this week.

It could all start perfectly as he boards the highly-fancied Asterion Forlonge in the first race on Tuesday.

The six-year-old has a flawless three-from-three winning record so far and Townend is confident for the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle.

He said: “My first ride is Asterion Forlonge, who I am really looking forward to riding. He impressed me a lot when he won in Naas and probably surprised me with the pace he showed to win at Leopardstown.

“He is a very strong stayer. He is a good ride to start the meeting with in that he is straightforward.

“We shouldn’t be getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of the race and it would be a dream start if we could get off the mark.”