Attack rounds off memorable weekend for O'Brien

Fire Attack rounded off a memorable weekend for Joseph O'Brien as he ran out an easy winner of the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase.

Completing a double on the day, O'Brien also had three winners yesterday, with State Of Rest undoubtedly the highlight in the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley in Australia.

On what was his debut over fences, Fire Attack was sent off the 4/7 favourite under Shane Fitzgerald in the colours of Gigginstown House Stud.

Sent straight to the front, the son of Westerner made all. He wasn't fluent at the third last and came home six lengths to the good. Even Flight finished second at 28/1, with Mikey Hamill aboard this one for Philip Fenton, while Champagne Sparkles was a further fifteen lengths back in third.

Brendan Powell, O'Brien's assistant trainer, said: "On ratings he was entitled to win it. He has not been the easiest because he is usually a bit keen and he can hang.

"Joseph just said today to jump him out and let him see the fences. He has done plenty of schooling at home.

"It was a lovely performance, he made one mistake but other than that he was very slick. He will improve for the run and will probably be a bit better on a bit better ground. It's nice to get his head back in front again.

"It has been a great weekend for Joseph. He has won a seven-furlong race, a mile-and-a-quarter Group 1, a mares novice hurdle, a mares novice chase and this. He is an amazing guy!"