O'Brien could have All The Answers in Fairyhouse All The Answers jumped notably well at Cork — which should stand him in good stead for a step up in class in today's Grade B EasyFix Handicap Steeplechase at Fairyhouse. Joseph O’Brien’s seven-year-old took the honours by five lengths, on his first venture into handicap company, and that effort can be marked up because it was also his first appearance for almost a year. A 9lb rise may not be enough to stop him following up this weekend. Duca De Thaix is a solid yardstick in this contest after four placed efforts in a row in beginners’ chases. The Jim Ryan Racecourse Services Beginners Steeplechase has a very competitive look to it, but Moonshine Bay is worth considering. After he won over hurdles at Down Royal in May, assistant trainer Kate Harrington described him as a massive chasing type who would improve with a summer grass under his belt. Timeforwest ran well to chase home Camelia De Cotte in a Listed mares’ chase at Clonmel and could go one better in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Handicap Steeplechase. Column Of Fire romped home by 13 lengths in a Navan bumper, which makes him very much of interest in the Free Racecourse WiFi at Fairyhouse Maiden Hurdle. O’Brien’s Lone Wolf is a major player, though, after landing a Punchestown bumper in April that has thrown up plenty of winners. French import Eclat Des Mottes won a six-runner maiden hurdle at Downpatrick in August, and is an interesting contender for the Christmas Party Race Day December 15th Rated Novice Hurdle. Galway Blazers winner Snugsborough Benny switches to the smaller obstacles and may take advantage of a mark of 121 in the Fairyhouse 2019 Membership Handicap Hurdle. Noel Meade’s Valdieu was no match for the exciting Malone Road at Down Royal, but the Kettles Country House Hotel Supporting Fingal Ravens GAA (Pro/Am) Flat Race should be within his compass.
