Taipan takes Bond challenge
Willie Mullins is hoping for a good run from Alexander Taipan in the Bet@Bluesquare.com Royal Bond Novices’ Hurdle at Fairyhouse on Sunday.
The County Carlow trainer was pleased with the five-year-old’s first victory over hurdles at Punchestown two weeks ago and is happy for him to take his chance in this Grade One contest, for which eight horses have been declared.
“He’s in good form. I’m happy enough with him and David Casey came down to ride him earlier in the week,” said Mullins.
“I was delighted with his run at Punchestown. It’s a tough race, but these Grade One races are.”
Heading the opposition is the Edward O’Grady O’Muircheartaigh, currently ante-post favourite for the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in March after winning a Grade Three contest at Navan three weeks ago.
Recent Naas scorer Iktitaf represents Noel Meade, with the completed by Monty Mint, Mounthenry, Silent Oscar, Up Above and High Priestess.
