Ruby Walsh makes notable detour to partner exciting Getabird in Grade 1

2.00 Limerick
Matchbook Betting Exchange Novice Chase (Grade 1) | 4yo+ | 2m3f | ATR

Throughout just about all of Ruby Walsh's glittering career, on December 26 he has ridden at either Leopardstown or Kempton.

This year, however, will be different. For the first time since 1996, when he was a 3lb claiming amateur, the 12-time Irish champion will spend the afternoon at Limerick, with Getabird in the Matchbook Betting Exchange Novice Chase the prime reason for his visit.

The race is the first Grade 1 to be staged at Limerick, and Willie Mullins, who trains Getabird, has sent out five of the last ten winners. The six-year-old gelding will be attempting to build on his smooth win on chasing debut at Punchestown 17 days ago.

Mullins said: "Getabird has shown that he is much happier going right-handed and that's why we have decided on Limerick rather than Leopardstown for his Christmas target.

"He was very good at Punchestown and hopefully he'll show the improvement necessary for a Grade 1."

Hardline and Davy Russell after winning the Grade 3 Klairon Davis Novice Chase at NavanCredit: Patrick McCann

Getabird's six rivals include Hardline, who was scoring for the second time over fences when landing the Grade 3 Klairon Davis Chase by ten lengths at Navan this month.

The Gordon Elliott-trained six-year-old will be stepping up almost half a mile in trip and Eddie O'Leary, spokesman for owners Gigginstown House Stud, said: "Hardline won his beginners' chase very easily and was very good at Navan last time.

"He was a bit unlucky in the Craddockstown at Punchestown when he was distracted by a shadow and landed on top of a fence. We think the longer trip should suit him."

Game Of War, successful on his chasing debut at Thurles, also represents Gigginstown, and trainer Henry de Bromhead said: "This will be a hotter contest that the Thurles race but he stuck to his task well that day and is in good form."

Jetz: finished third in the Grade 1 Drinmore Chase last timeCredit: Caroline Norris

Jetz, third in the Grade 1 Drinmore Chase at Fairyhouse, represents Jessica Harrington, while French import Majurca has his first run for Joseph O'Brien.

O'Brien said: "He showed good form in France, where he won a hurdle race and a chase. He'd probably prefer further but he's well and we'll get a chance to learn more about him."

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