Willie Mullins started day two of the Cheltenham Festival in the best way possible, taking the Sporting Life Arkle Challenge Trophy with El Fabiolo.

The six-year-old had just his third start over fences and was sent off 11-10 favourite, proving he had flourished under a year with the Mullins camp. El Fabiolo was ridden just off the pace set by stablemate Dysart Dynamo and with Jonbon firmly in sight and with the other pair going wider, a smooth jump two out saw him edge into the lead. He brushed aside Jonbon to record a five and a half length victory.

This victory took Mullins' Cheltenham tally to 89 and as the week progresses, it is only likely to grow further. His odds of 11-10, having been subject to a strong gamble before the off, proved this was no surprise, and all roads now lead towards next year's Queen Mother Champion Chase, with Paddy Power and Betfair Sportsbook halving the horse's odds to 3-1 (from 6) to win that title.

The dream of winning next year's Queen Mother Champion Chase is shared by El Fabiolo's owners, Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, with the latter admitting he endured "a few flutters" from the horse's jumping. Nick Henderson, trainer for runner-up Jonbon commented that his horse would step up in distance and he will now aim him at the Manifesto Novices' Chase at Aintree over two and a half miles, with better ground also believed to more favourable.

Overall, day two saw Willie Mullins' domination continue, with El Fabiolo's victory leading to a strong position and bright future ahead.