Big rivalries take centre stage at Fairyhouse

Ruby Walsh: teams up with trainer Jim Nash for the first time

The versatile Vroum Vroum Mag has got the green light to contest the Bar One Racing Hattons Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse on SundayCredit: Caroline Norris

In contrast to last week's Navan card, field sizes are compact at Fairyhouse on Sunday, with three Grade 1 events and a Grade 3 juvenile hurdle attracting 27 runners between them.

A year ago the three Grade 1 races produced a winning favourite, two supplied by Willie Mullins and the other by Gordon Elliott. Both trainers will be centre stage again, Elliott buoyed by last Sunday's magnificent Navan six-timer. The champion has also sent out a steady stream of winners in recent weeks.

If the Mullins/Elliott rivalry is the story of the moment, the battle between Gigginstown and JP McManus is a significant subplot. Both parties are well represented, and McManus can strike first in the juvenile event (12.40) with the Joseph O'Brien-trained Landofhopeandglory who sets the early standard in this category.

Read the full story

Read award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing, with exclusive news, interviews, columns, investigations, stable tours and subscriber-only emails.

Subscribe to unlock

Racing Post digital newspaper (worth over £100 per month)
Award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing
Expert tips from the likes of Tom Segal and Paul Kealy
Replays and results analysis from all UK and Irish racecourses
Form study tools including the Pro Card and Horse Tracker
Extensive archive of statistics covering horses, trainers, jockeys, owners, pedigree and sales data

Already a subscriber?Log in

Alan SweetmanFeatures writer

Published on 3 December 2016inHorse racing tips

Last updated 16:28, 3 December 2016

Copy