Fahey looking forward to getting Gypsy Island back on track at Tipperary

The long wait is almost over for Peter Fahey, who is looking forward to Gypsy Island returning at Tipperary on Thursday following a 736-day absence.

Fahey, who enjoyed a memorable campaign with a breakthrough Cheltenham Festival victory followed by a first Grade 1 at Aintree with Belfast Banter last season, is cautiously optimistic about welcoming back one of the most exciting bumper horses of her generation.

Thursday's Tipperary card

Gypsy Island has not been seen since winning a Grade 3 bumper at the 2019 Punchestown festival, but the trainer reports the JP McManus-owned seven-year-old to be in good shape for her return in the opening mares' maiden hurdle (4.20).

He said: "She's been off the track for a long time and we're just hopeful she runs a nice race and can build on it. She picked up an injury behind a couple of seasons ago and there have been a few niggly things that have kept her off the track but she seems to be fine again now. We always thought she was a top-class filly so hopefully we know where we are after Thursday.”

Fahey added: “The plan is for Belfast Banter to run in the Galway Hurdle and he could have a run on the Flat beforehand.

"I was delighted with Peregrine Run at Punchestown and the plan is to run him at Killarney on Monday. He loves Killarney so we’re looking forward to running him there."

Thursday previews

1.45: Graeme Rodway crunches the numbers to see if the inside draw offers value

2.15: Can anyone stop Aidan O'Brien's recent domination of the Dee Stakes?

2.45: Pedigree analysis suggests duo will be well suited by the softer ground

3.15: Hollie Doyle and Champions Day hero Trueshan team up again in Ormonde Stakes

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