A horse purchased for €500,000 is set to make his debut for Willie Mullins at Punchestown on Saturday afternoon.
Grangeclare West, who was removed from Gordon Elliott's yard after a photo emerged of the trainer sitting on a dead horse, runs in the Ladbrokes (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race at the Co Kildare venue.
He was one of a number of horses removed from the Meath handler's yard by powerful owners Cheveley Park Stud earlier this year.
Grangeclare West was purchased by the owners for £430,000 at the Tattersalls Cheltenham December Sale last year after winning at Lingstown for Jamie Codd and Denis Murphy of Ballyboy Stables.
His racecourse debut comes just days after another Cheveley Park Stud-owned horse botled up on his first run for Mullins after being removed from Elliott's yard.
Classic Getaway, who cost an eye-watering £570,000 after winning his sole start in the point-to-point field, pulled 15 lengths clear on his first start for Willie and Patrick Mullins at Tipperary – and will now enjoy a summer break.
Speaking after his success, Cheveley Park’s managing director Chris Richardson said: “He’s such a good-looking horse with a lovely classic head and lovely long ears.
“Patrick was very happy with him. He gave him a nice introduction, and we can look forward to next season.
“He didn’t really know what to do in the final stages of the race, and I’m sure he’ll learn a lot from that.”
On Grangeclare West, Richardson added: “I don’t think he’s in the same league as Classic Getaway – but he’s a nice horse, and we’ll learn a bit more.
“We’re spoilt with the really good horses that we’ve got at the moment. Hopefully he’s another one to look forward to.
“We’ll get a run into him, and then put him away.”
Grangeclare West will be partnered by Jody Townend in the final race at Punchestown on Saturday.
