Just the one runner for Joseph O'Brien on day two of the Grand National Festival, but he has a big chance of winning the Melling Chase with Fakir D'Oudairies...
We decided to withdraw Fakir D'Oudairies from Fairyhouse last Monday after I walked the track. I felt it was just too quick for him and we have to put the horse first. This is definitely a stronger race than he was due to run in on Monday, but his excellent run in the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival entitles him to a leading chance in it.
We'll be having a look at the ground again on Friday and as long as it's safe, he'll take his chance. This mid-range trip is probably his best distance and he ran very well at this meeting as a juvenile hurdler. Some unexpected rain would be welcomed!