Boost for injured O’Brien as Tullow Tank hits top gear

Sean O’Brien’s Christmas might have been tainted somewhat by the shoulder injury he sustained against Ulster, but there was better sporting news for him elsewhere this week.

Tullow Tank, the horse named after the Ireland flanker, secured his second Grade One prize of the season in taking the Paddy Power Future Champions Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown on St Stephen’s Day.

O’Brien sold the horse in March 2012 but retains a keen interest in its progress, tweeting to jockey Danny Mullins after the win: “Go on the tank!!! @dan2231 well done to all involved again #Cheltenhamiscalling brilliant stuff!”