JP McManus has 19 runners carrying his famous colours at the opening session of Fairyhouse’s ‘Winter Festival’ today but of them all perhaps the most expectation will be on jumping newcomer Timiyan.
The owner paid €470,000 to the Aga Khan for the Dermot Weld-trained four-year-old at the 2014 Champions Sale, making Timiyan the top lot and provoking inevitable dreams of Cheltenham success.
He is only racing over flights for the first time now but a horse rated 103 on the flat should be a formidable opponent in the second division of a maiden hurdle which also includes Michael O’Leary’s unbeaten former point-to-point winner Nambour.
The first division looks competitive heat with highclass bumper performers Pylonthepressure and Tombstone facing off.
The McManus team will also be keeping a keen eye on Alvisio Ville’s chasing debut in the 11.40 opener.
Alvisio Ville failed to build on a big reputation over hurdles last season and faces a tough task on his first start over fences against an experienced 131-rated performer in Champagne James.
The well-related Tarare can return to action with a win in the bumper.
