Articulum is likely to go back over fences for the Dan Moore Memorial Handicap Chase at Fairyhouse next month following a decent effort over hurdles.
Trainer Terence O’Brien feels the 100,000 euro prize over two miles and a furlong on January 11 is the right race for last season’s Arkle Trophy third.
After that, the Dublin Racing Festival in February could be on the cards for Articulum, who was third to Janidil in a good handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse at the beginning of the month.
“He ran well, but I was slightly disappointed he didn’t win. I think he should still be able to win off his hurdle mark, so maybe another day,” said O’Brien, who is based in Cork.
“He’s 100 per cent. I’m not sure where he’ll go next. He’s entered in the Paddy Power Handicap Chase at Leopardstown, but I don’t think he’s going to go there.
“He’ll probably go for the Dan Moore at Fairyhouse. That may be the plan now. It’s usually not as competitive as some good handicaps with about 10 or 12 runners. It would be a nice prize to win.
“Then maybe on to Leopardstown for the big meeting in February. He could get a couple of entries there.”
