Arctic Fire burns off rivals to break Grade One duck

Champion Hurdle runner-up Arctic Fire was the star performer on a Sunday of top-class racing at Fairyhouse, the Willie Mullins-trained and Ruby Walsh-ridden gelding landing his first Grade One, the Bar One Racing Hatton’s Grace Hurdle, in tremendous style.

With upwards of 19lbs in hand of his rivals, he was entitled to score comfortably, but it didn’t stop the layers taking him on. Surprisingly available at even-money for quite some time before the off, late money forced him back into 4-5 and those who retained faith in the Lismullen Hurdle winner enjoyed a smooth ride throughout, despite his usual tendency to race keenly.

Dropped out early, he eased into contention on the turn for home, moved upsides after the second-last, and only had to be pushed out to come home clear of Alpha Des Obeaux and Gwencily Berbas.