Quevega was also a winner at last month's Cheltenham Festival

Quevega produced a hugely impressive performance to land the Ladbrokes.com World Series Hurdle at Punchestown.

Young jockey Paul Townend, replacing the injured Ruby Walsh, produced an assured ride to guide the 5-2 favourite to a three-length win over Bensalem.

It was another win for trainer Willie Mullins after the horse's victory in the Mares' Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Stablemate Mourad looked threatening two from home but faded to take third as Quevega strode clear after the last.

The Mullins-Townend combination also landed Tuesday's big race at Punchestown when Golden Silver triumphed in the Champion Chase.

Thursday's victory was a repeat triumph in the race for county Carlow trainer Mullins after Fiveforthree took victory 12 months ago.

The Grade One success over three miles earned the winning connections over £91,000.

A delighted Townend, 19, felt in control of the race from the off.

"I was doing it so easily," said the young Irish jockey.

"She's really quick over hurdles. She has the heart of a lion."

Karabak, the second challenger from the Alan King stable, took over from long-time leader Kayf Aramis four from home but Tony McCoy's mount faded after the second last.

Ladbrokes.com World Series Hurdle (Punchestown)
1. Quevega (P Townend) 5-2 fav
2. Bensalem (R Thornton) 10-1
3. Mourad (D Casey) 11-2
13 ran. Dist: 3

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