Moscow Flyer is on target for a clash with Azertyuiop in next month's Tingle Creek Trophy after a comfortable win at Navan in his first race of the season. The 10-year-old jumped fluently in the Ballymore Properties Fortria Chase on Sunday and jockey Barry Geraghty eased him clear at the second last.
His task was made easier when Rathgar Beau unseated his jockey at the last, leaving 30-100 favourite Moscow Flyer to come home unchallenged.
Moscow Flyer won the Champion Chase at the 2003 Cheltenham Festival but unseated Geraghty in last year's race, which Azertyuiop won.
Trainer Jessica Harrington said she was "very happy" with his display at Navan.
"When he wanted to, he winged the last two. That's the first hurdle over with. He'll come on for that run and will go for the Tingle Creek at Sandown next.
"We'll make a decision after the Tingle Creek about running in the King George. He has plenty of options."
Solerina, another popular Irish horse, was also in winning action at Navan.
The mare cruised to a comfortable eight-length win in the Philips Electronics Lismullen Hurdle.
The Hatton's Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse is next on her agenda.
"Gary said she wasn't in love with the ground today - she likes it a bit looser," said owner John Bowe.
"Two and a half miles is probably her best trip but we wouldn't be worried about running over two miles as long as the ground is suitable."
But Bowe virtually ruled out a tilt at the Ladbrokes World (formerly Stayers') Hurdle at Cheltenham, adding: "Three miles around Cheltenham is not for her, although she wouldn't mind three miles on a flat track like Leopardstown."
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We'll make a decision after the Tingle Creek about running in the King George 
