Joseph O’Brien set on returning to Flat

Joseph O’Brien has every intention of returning to action on the Flat this season after electing to miss the opening day of the Irish season at the Curragh tomorrow to ride over hurdles at Limerick.

The 21-year-old has twice been crowned champion jockey on the level but the surprise development this weekend means he will bypass the first card of the new campaign in favour of riding Egyptian Warrior in the Family Fun Day Rated Novice Hurdle.

O’Brien was said by his father Aidan to be a “little heavy” for Flat duties, but is due to be at the Curragh after racing to partner some of the illustrious Ballydoyle string in now-traditional post-race gallops.