Championship-leader collects in Fairyhouse's opener

she was disappointing the last day in Wexford but Jack said she gave him a good feel there today. We'll probably come back here in three weeks time for the Solerina (Hurdle) and try and see if we can get a bit of black-type.

Mullins and Townend off the mark with I Will Be Baie

Talk on top again at Fairyhouse

There was a little question mark if he would get the two-and-a-half today so I had that in the back of my mind. I would rather be going a stride slower than a stride quicker on that ground as well. I would maybe have preferred if a horse came with me to bring me to the leader but I had to go when I did. He got in tight to the last and was doing the bare minimum in front so hopefully there is another bit of improvement in him. He did it well. Danny gave him a good ride and everything was straightforward, he seemed to improve from the last day. We thought he had. They get caught eventually (by the handicapper) but he's definitely improving and he jumps a fence well. The horses were sick all last year, we just tried to change things around a bit and everything seems healthy now. When they healthy you can make a plan but when they aren't you can't do anything.

Thornton completes Mighty double with gambled winner

there wasn't much pace on and Mighty Oak Lad is a good jumper, so Donagh lobbed away in front. He said he made a mistake at the first in Thurles and his race was over. Everything was happening a bit quick for him around there as he's a big oul horse. I'd say he's definitely suited by a bigger track and I'd say he'll stay hurdling. We'll give him a couple more runs and see if he can improve again.

Fowler race provides Gordon with further graded glory

she'll probably be very hard to place as I'd say going right-handed really suited her. Jack said she loved the ground, he said she stayed very well and we're delighted with her. I don't know where I'll go with her but I'd love to go right-handed. Cheltenham (in March) wouldn't be out of the question, I'll talk to Noel (Moran, owner) and see what they want to do, but it just mightn't be the right place for her.

Mullins and Townend double up with Rockett

Elliott completes Fairyhouse treble in bumper finale