Trained by Willie Mullins and carrying the Rich Ricci colours the daughter of Zarak took the four-year-old hurdle over 2m 3f and 85 yards at the Parisian track.

Runner-up in the Grade 1 Boodles Hurdle at Aintree on 9 April last, Lisgoold-born Townend kept the French-bred wide throughout the journey as he sought slightly better ground at the rain-soaked track.

#Auteuil – Prix Alain du Breil – Gde Course de Haies de Printemps des Quatre Ans (Gr.1)

Selma De Vary (Zarak) offre un nouveau succès de Groupe 1 à Willie Mullins dans le Prix Alain du Breil. La représentante de Mme S. Ricci, montée par P. Townend, domine Delmegan et Leopard… pic.twitter.com/tD4dCPce6m

— France Galop (@francegalop) May 17, 2026

The former Irish champion jockey made an eye-catching move down the back as he asked the filly to move towards the head of the field.

The four-year-old jumped well at the final two hurdles in the straight, and battled to the line to hold off the final challenge of eventual runner-up and joint-favourite, Delmegan, who failed by a neck at the line.

Leopard Du Berlais the other 2/1 joint-favourite was third six-and-a-half lengths behind the second-placer.

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