Ryan star foils rivals

Foildubh, owned and trained by John Ryan, made his breakthrough when turning over uneasy odds-on favourite Days Hotel in the Grade 2 Normans Grove Chase in Fairyhouse yesterday.

A tremendous money-spinner for the Fairyhill-based trainer in recent seasons, Foildubh pounced under a patient Paul Carberry between the last two fences and eased clear to beat the favourite by a length and three-quarters.

“That’s the first time he got good ground in a good race and he showed what he’s made of. He’s a fair horse on better ground and so tough that he gives everything, even on heavy,” stated a delighted Ryan.