Impressive Defy Logic cut to 20/1 for Neptune

On a day when Aintree-bound Seabass made a hugely encouraging return to action, hurdling debutant Defy Logic and Rock Critic enhanced their credentials as exciting novices with victories in Fairyhouse yesterday.

A wide-margin winner of his bumper at Fairyhouse back in November, Defy Logic (Mark Walsh) proved a very impressive winner of the Great Value Corporate Hospitality Maiden Hurdle.

Paul Nolan’s charge, sent off 4/6 favourite, was soon in front, racing keenly. He jumped fluently, tracked all the way by his only serious market rival Mad Brian. Turning for home, his nearest rival was struggling and was making no impression on the winner when blundering and unseating his rider at the final obstacle.