Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices Hurdle 2 Miles
Kopek Des Bordes (Paul) looked a cut above normal when winning a grade one impressively at Leopardstown and is our best chance in this race. He’s been in top form at home and should take beating.
Salvator Mundi (Patrick) looked a bit novicey when winning at Punchestown but the race wasn’t run to suit him. He has a big engine and might give Kopek most to do.
Irancy (Mark Walsh) won his maiden hurdle in great style back in November but had a setback afterwards and hasn’t raced since. His recent homework has been very good and he will be of interest to each-way punters.
Karbau (Sean O’Keeffe) improved dramatically from his first run when winning very well at Punchestown. He deserves his chance here.
Funiculi Funicula (Brian Hayes) won nicely at Clonmel and jumps very well. He could be thereabouts today.
Karniquet (Danny) came from a long way back when second to Kopek Des Bordes at Leopardstown. If he settles and lies up here, a case can be made for his place prospects.
Arkle Novices Chase 2 Miles
Majborough (Mark Walsh) has looked top class and looks the pick. He won the Triumph Hurdle here last year and he should have the class to see off this opposition. The only negative might be that he is just a 5yo.
Mares Hurdle 2m 4f
After much consideration we have had a late change of heart and decided to run Lossiemouth (Paul) in this race which she won last year. Paul was keen to ride her here and it represents her best chance of winning at the festival. She is in good form and hopefully she will do the business again this year.
Jade De Grugy (Danny) came back after a break to win at Punchestown last month. However, that was only 19 days ago and that might impact her chances in a race of this calibre.
Gala Marceau (Brian Hayes) jumped poorly when third at Warwick but has a good chance of being placed here if she cleans up her jumping.
Champion Hurdle 2 Miles
State Man (Paul) wears first time cheek pieces which we thing will be a big plus. He goes here as the reigning champion and hopefully he will retain his crown. He has a lot going for him. The race should be run to suit and the drying ground is also a positive.
Winter Fog (Brian Hayes) has been placed to gain nice prize money and that is the plan again today.
Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle 2 Miles
Paul rides Sony Bill who wore a tongue tie in France and wears one for us for the first time today. He has plenty of experience and that will stand to him in a big field like this.
Murcia (Rachael Blackmore) will be well suited by the drying ground but might find it tough to get into the first three.
NH Novices Handicap Chase 3m 6f
Captain Cody (Danny) will be suited by this marathon trip and it should bring out the best in him.
Klarc Kent (Sean O’Keeffe) needs a trip like this and has a nice weight and will like the ground.
