We have three runners in the Supreme Novices Hurdle over 2 miles. Asterion Forlonge (Paul) has done nothing wrong so far and the soft ground will really play into his hands. He has won three out of three for us and hopefully he will extend that winning sequence here. Berkshire Royal (Dave Crosse) is having his first run for us. He has just changed ownership and has a nice flat rating. He is more a dual purpose horse for next season and is one to keep an eye on. Elixir D’ainay (Mark Walsh) ran too free at Leopardstown last time and found the trip too far. This trip will be more to his liking and he will handle the ground.
Cash Back (Paul) goes for the Arkle Novice Chase over 2 miles. He will like the ground and we think he will improve from his last run at Leopardstown where he was beaten by today’s rival Notebook. We think he has every chance of turning that form around here.
We run two in the Champion Hurdle over 2 miles. Cilaos Emery (Paul) was supplemented for this race and he should at least recoup that cost. The ground has really come right for him. On the other hand, Sharjah won’t be suited by this soft ground. He didn’t jump well in the Irish Champion Hurdle so Patrick might ride him a bit differently here.
We have three in the Mares Hurdle over 2m 4f. Benie Des Dieux (Paul) is in great form and travelled over well. She had this race won last year when falling at the last and we are expecting her to make up for that lapse by winning this time round. Elfile (Danny) will love this ground and has been in good form at home. She could have a nice each-way chance. Stormy Ireland (Robbie Power) has been improving all season and could run a career best today.
Carefully Selected (Patrick) runs in the 3m 6f NH Amateur Novices Chase. He has won his last three races and has a lot going for him here. He will be suited by this trip and the soft ground. The only slight negative is his lack of experience for a race like this.
