Title chasing jockeys dominate Fairyhouse opener

It’s 85 for Donnacha O’Brien now, and 87 for Colin Keane, after the title chasing jockeys filled the first two positions in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Claiming Race at Fairyhouse. The reigning champion triumphed on Chrysalism (3s into 2s).

Keane was aboard favourite, Vormir (11/10), for his boss Ger Lyons.

Last Wednesday’s Naas scorer and always to the fore racer here, couldn’t fend off Chrysalism and a length split them at the line. The victor came from mid-division to strike the front a hundred yards out.

“She did it well. I thought the favourite was thrown in off the weights but in fairness to her she stuck at it well and she had a bit of a look when she got there,” said Donnacha O'Brien, on Chrysalism, trained by his brother Joseph, and owned and bred by his mother Ann Marie.

“She wasn't killing herself when I got to the front so hopefully she can improve again.

“They went very fast so I just kept her comfortable and sat in there. It seemed to work out anyway.”

Vormir (15K) was claimed by County Mayo trainer Fergal Birrane.

B.M. Coen, rider of Talking Tough trained by Michael Mulvany, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount never travelled.

The Stewards interviewed D. O'Brien, rider of Chrysalism, concerning his use of the whip in the closing stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards found D. O'Brien in breach of Regulation 10.3 (g) and having considered D. O'Briens record they cautioned him on this occasion.

(GC & EM)