Walsh misses out on racing return

Jockey Ruby Walsh was out of luck on his comeback at Fairyhouse today after eight-weeks on the sidelines.

However, Walsh has some plum mounts lined-up from the Paul Nicholls stable at the three-day Cheltenham Open meeting this weekend.

Walsh will ride Poliantas for Nicholls in the feature Paddy Power Gold Cup on Saturday.

His other rides for the Ditcheat trainer are set to include the smart staying chaser Ad Hoc in the Open Trophy Handicap Chase on the same card.

Walsh only had two mounts today. After taking an early lead on the Michael O’Brien trained 5-4 favourite Thaix in the Clover Hill Hurdle the combination fell – the race going to Biennale.

He then rode Celtic Grian Ard for Pat Fahy in the Rathbeggan Handicap Hurdle but finished only ninth behind One Shot Sheehan.

Walsh said afterwards he felt fine and was looking forward to three rides at Clonmel tomorrow before moving on to Cheltenham.

Walsh fractured his right hip in a tumble from the Joe Crowley-trained Caishill at Listowel in September.

During his recuperation he went on holiday to America and Australia.