Fire much the best in Tipp opener

The opening Follow Tipperary Races On Facebook Maiden Hurdle was marred by the fatal injury sustained by Tony Mullins' Santarius at the third hurdle. Another German-bred, Arctic Fire trained by Tony's brother Willie, proved victorious in the hands of Ruby Walsh.

Once Walsh let out an inch of rein on the Soldier Hollow gelding, after two out, the contest was soon over, and the 13/8 favourite pinged the last on his way to a six length dismissal of Enchanted Forest

Like stable companion, Melbourne Cup hope, Simenon, Arctic Fire carries the Wicklow Bloodstock Limited silks.

Walsh said: "He goes well and he jumped well. It was unfortunate what happened to Santarius and it was a pity that they didn't get to see how good he was.

"The important thing with my horse was that he settled well."

(TW & EM)