JP McManus celebrates his birthday in style

Michael O’Leary wished JP McManus a happy 75th birthday on Tuesday as only Michael O’Leary could - he told him that “only the good die young”. While a Cheltenham Champion Hurdle victory eluded him on his big day, McManus was still able to celebrate in style with “a 208-1 handicap double” thanks to the efforts of Saratoga and Johnnywho (and their jockeys). While British trainers eclipsed their Irish rivals by four to three on the opening day of the festival, Willie Mullins took the big one, Lossiemouth “delivering a resounding success” in the Champion Hurdle. It was, says Brian, “a comprehensive form turnaround from...