We have three runners in the 2 mile handicap chase. Unexcepted (Jody McGarvey) is running in his first handicap chase. He won a beginners chase in good style at Tipperary in October but then ran a bit disappointingly behind Energumene in the Arkle at Leopardstown. He is dropping back to handicap class here and he should figure prominently. Andalusa (Brian Hayes) has a nice racing weight but might find this ground a little on the slow side. Harrie (Bryan Cooper) will love the trip and will handle the ground.
We run four in the Grade 1 Champion Stayers Hurdle over 3 miles. First-time cheek pieces might help Bacardys (Sean O’Keeffe) but realistically a share of the place money is all we can hope for. Patrick has elected to ride Klassical Dream who will wear a hood for the first time. He has been off for a while but is fit and ready to start back. This will be his first time over this trip and we are expecting a decent run. Saldier (Danny) won the Morgiana Hurdle here and if at his best has the class to win this. James Du Berlais (Brian Hayes) works well at home but didn’t shine at Cheltenham. It’s a tough task for a 5yo but he could be suited by this longer trip.
Capodanno (Jody McGarvey) runs in the 3 mile handicap hurdle. Was fourth over this trip at Fairyhouse earlier this month and should give a good account of himself on ground he will like.
We have won the last five runnings of the Grade 1 Ryanair Novice Chase over 2 miles and we have two runners in it this year. Energumene (Paul) is suited by these race conditions and has been in great form at home. Granted a clear round he should see off this opposition. Janidil (Mark Walsh) is improving and is certainly not without a chance. This trip is fine for him and he will appreciate this nicer ground.
We will have three runners in the 2 mile Mares Listed Novice Hurdle. Gauloise (Paul) ran well in Fairyhouse last time and we think she will improve on that run today. She should be a big player here. Hook Up (Danny) has a bit to find on the book but will be suited by this track. The West Awaits (Brian Hayes) is taking a big step up in class. This will tell us what sort of ability she really has.
We run two in the winners’ bumper. Patrick goes for Dysart Dynamo who was very impressive when winning a bumper at Clonmel last month. Hopefully he can build on that and get seriously involved here. Cool Jet ran in the Cheltenham Bumper and takes a big a big drop in class today. He will have the benefit of Jody Townend’s valuable 7lb claim and that should enable him to be competitive.
