FOLLLOWING a prolonged dry spell that had led to reduced field sizes of late, the Meath Foxhounds and Tara Harriers fixture at Fairyhouse on Sunday was met with ideal underfoot conditions, attracting a strong turnout and resulting in an extended nine-race card.

The opening four-year-old mares’ maiden divided and was the start of a memorable day for Rob James, who recorded a four-timer, while also training a double in the process. He was responsible for both winning mares in the Matchmaker Syndicate colours, kicking off with Princess Day (3/1 - 5/2) in the first division.