Fire burns bright in Grade 2 novice He’s On Fire looked another potential star for Willie Mullins when powering clear to take the Paddy Kehoe Suspended Ceilings Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse. The French-import was a facile winner on his first outing for the champion trainer at Carlisle in mid-February and went to post 3/1 favourite stepping into Grade 2 company today. Paul Townend’s mount travelled well to challenge two from home and despite being slightly untidy there he soon hit the front. The Chanducoq gelding was sent clear before the last and galloped on strongly in the closing stages to post a 12-length victory over Generous Risk in the two-and-a-half mile contest. “It was very impressive. He’s shown us at home that he was half decent,” said Mullins. “He’ll probably go on again to Punchestown, all being well. “He looks like a real chaser in the making, he has size and scope. He might just be another good horse for Rich and Susannah (Ricci). “I’m sure he’ll have no trouble getting three miles over fences. “I thought he jumped well enough but the way he opened up from the second last was wow, it was something else. “There was a nice field of horses there, including our own. I didn’t think he’d leave a few of our own horses that far behind. He’s just improving all the time. “We’ll have a look at the Grade 1 in Punchestown but I’m looking forward to next year more than anything else, when he goes novice chasing. “He was well named I think.”
