MAJLIS BOOSTS FESTIVAL CLAIMS
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Majlis (5-1) did his Cheltenham prospects no harm with a brave win in the
Tattersalls (Ireland) Derby Sale Winning Fair Juvenile Hurdle at Fairyhouse.
Don't Be Bitin made a lot of the running in the Grade Three contest but was
joined in the straight by Majlis and Loyal Focus.
The latter did not find much after two out and it was left to Majlis and Don't
Be Bitin to fight it out close home, with Majlis prevailing by a neck.
"He's a good, tough horse but needs a very strong ride," said winning
trainer Michael O'Brien.
"He's in both the four-year-old handicap and the Triumph at Cheltenham and
he'll probably run in one of them, with the handicap favourite at the moment.
"He'll probably improve for a step up in time."
O'Brien is also responsible for Barati, who holds the same engagements at the
Festival.
The Royal Ascot-placed colt has yet to score over hurdles but is gradually
getting his act together and could be O'Brien's representative in the Triumph.
"The plan at the moment is to run at Cheltenham as well. He didn't really get
a mile and a half on the Flat and has been finding it tough on heavy ground over
hurdles.
"If he did get beaten at Cheltenham we'll probably keep him as a novice for
next season."
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