Fortune favours The Hurl

He didn't jump too badly and just needs a bit more work schooling. We were a bit lucky but I'll take all the luck I can get. This trip is the horses bare minimum but we needed to get a run into him after going early at Fairyhouse last time.

O'Connor makes the difference

I have him about three months but must give all the credit to previous trainer Margaret O'Sullivan who gave me a notebook on how to train the horse.

Tadhg upsets the Bull

It shows the difference hurdles make as he easily reversed previous bumper placings with Under The Arch. He ran too free in his bumper the last day but settled better today and jumped well. He'll go now for a winners hurdle.

Ballyhaunis justifies good support

He got a terrific ride from Paul and he really got a great jump out of him at the last. We'll probably keep it low key and go for a winners of two next. I'd say we'll avoid Graded races like the Royal Bond and the Barry & Sandra Kelly at Navan for the time being.

Mexico has rivals well sized up

He's a real chaser in the making, and anything he does this season will be a bonus. He's very exciting, stays and jumps well but also had the pace to win a bumper last year. He's filling out but still raw, and soft ground would appear to be the key. He's entered for the Barry & Sandra Kelly at Navan next month, while the Dorans Pride Novice Hurdle at the Limerick Christmas meeting is another option.

Messenger proves true for Hourigan/Heskin

Roger makes winning debut

He's a lovely prospect and a big baby. He was fit enough to run last year but kept growing, so we decided to leave him off. He ran very green, and will probably go now for a Graded bumper at Navan next month where the big, galloping track will suit him,.