We have two runners in the 3 mile novice handicap hurdle. Tempo Chapter Two (Paul) was unplaced in the County at Cheltenham but is a course winner here. It is a bit of a gamble going out to 3 miles but he settles well and that will help him to get the trip. If he sees out the trip his speed will be a big asset at the finish. Belle Metal (Danny) won a maiden over 2 miles at Navan last time but really needs a trip like this. She will handle the ground and track and might be well handicapped.
We run seven in the valuable 2 mile handicap hurdle. Paul has picked Farout who drops in class here after running well in the County Hurdle at Cheltenham last time. Paul feels he can improve and get involved at the business end here. Tax For Max (Danny) will like this ground and has a little chance. La Prima Donna (Bryan Cooper) is having her first run in a handicap and should run well off her light weight. She will be okay on the ground. Heia (Brian Hayes) is also running in her first handicap and she too has a chance off her mark. Dads Lad (Kieran Callaghan) is coming back after a break and will find this a tough assignment. Hybery (Sean O’Keeffe) has been working well at home but needs to improve a lot to have a chance here. Feigh (Charlie O’Dwyer) is out of the handicap proper but has the benefit of her rider’s useful 7lb claim. However, she needs to find some improvement to get involved here.
We have two runners in the mares bumper over 2m 4f. Patrick has chosen Cnoc Na Si who was second on her debut at Limerick. The ground was heavy that day but we think she will handle this drier surface. With normal improvement she should be very competitive. Walk In The Brise (Jody Townend) was also second on her debut and she will appreciate the step up in trip here. She will love this ground and should run very well.
