Fantasy King off the mark over hurdles

Fantasy King gained his first win for almost two years and his fourth in total when landing the opening Navan Maiden Hurdle at Navan today for trainer Charles O'Brien and jockey Andrew McNamara. Bertieblewthelot set the pace but was badly equipped to handle the 'downturn' as Coolfighter swept to the front at the second last. Fantasy King was produced late by McNamara to lead early on the run-in and recorded a length and a half win over Salam Alaykum

Trainer O'Brien was absent but McNamara later stated “Charles (O'Brien) was adamant that I drop him in and get him settled today. He actually didn't settle that well really but when we turned in I let him stride on. He met the last on a long stride and got to the front sooner than I intended but kept on well up the hill. It's lovely ground and there's plenty juice in it.”

Fantasy King had previously won a bumper, Flat maiden and handicap and was gaining his first win since November 2011.

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Alan Magee