We have two runners making their hurdling debuts in the 4YO maiden hurdle over 2m 4f. Horantzau D’airy (Paul) won an AQPS race in France and that experience will stand to him here. He has schooled well at home. Heia (Bryan Cooper) also won an AQPS race and will benefit from her first experience of hurdling.
We have three declared for the Pertemps Qualifier Handicap Hurdle over 3 miles. Maze Runner (Paul) won a valuable handicap over this course and distance in February but could find it hard to replicate that feat with a lot more weight this time. He has an each-way chance. Authorized Art (Brian Hayes) has two solid runs over much shorter trips and really needs this test of stamina. He must have a great each-way chance. Dark Voyager (Jack Foley) disappointed over 2 miles last time and we are hoping this longer trip will bring some improvement.
We have four in the Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle over 3 miles. Klassical Dream (Paul) likes this trip and track. On his win in the Champion Stayers at the Punchestown festival he is the one to beat here but his lack of a recent run is a concern. Mr Adjudicator (Jack Foley) has been off the track for a long time and we will just have to see how he gets on today. Saldier (Brian Hayes) got a knock on the way to start at Fairyhouse last time so we are putting a line through that run. He should appreciate this trip and has a good each-way shout. Burning Victory (Rachael Blackmore) is better than her run at Navan last time but hasn’t got the rating to threaten the principals here.
We also run four in the Grade 1 Savilles Chase over 3 miles. Franco De Port (Bryony Frost) won over 2m 1f here but really needs much further nowadays. He could be a surprise each-way prospect. Janidil (Mark Walsh) wasn’t mature enough for this trip in the Albert Bartlett but will get this trip now. His run in the John Durkan gives him a great shout here. Kemboy (Paul) and Melon (Patrick) ran crackers when second and third respectively in this race last year and both like this track and will act on the ground.
We have two runners in the 2m 5f beginners chase. Blue Sari (Mark Walsh) ran a very good race at Navan last time that form gives him an excellent chance here. Galopin Des Champs (Paul) is making his chasing debut but has schooled nicely at home. His overall hurdling form is very good but his lack of experience over fences is a worry.
Redemption Day (Patrick) makes his debut in the bumper. He is a nice type by Blue Bresil who works well at home. It would be great if he could keep up our good recent run in bumpers.
