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Hardline dominates in opener at Fairyhouse

Hardline and Davy RussellHardline and Davy Russell
© Photo Healy Racing

Hardline led home a Gigginstown one-two in the beginners' chase at Fairyhouse.

Davy Russell 's mount closed up on Arvico Bleu approaching the third-last before taking a narrow lead at the penultimate fence.

Arvico Bleu made a mistake at that obstacle and soon found himself well adrift and off the bridle.

Harline (9/10f) tanked along to the last and cleared it to come home clear by 15 lengths from Arvico Bleu at 2/1.

"He was entitled to do that as he was a 140 horse on ratings over hurdles,” trainer Gordon Elliott said.

“Davy said he jumped great and he was very happy with him so it's great and we're very happy with him.

“It's nice to have a few of those two-milers because we normally have three-milers.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson

About Michael Graham
Michael has worked in horse racing journalism for more than 15 years, having also written a weekly betting column on Gaelic football and hurling for a newspaper. He is involved in writing the My Racing Story features on this website. He spent a year in South Africa completing a Diploma in Business Administration and also studied Newspaper Journalism in Belfast. He enjoys playing 5-a-side football on a regular basis.