We run seven in the John Durkan Memorial Chase over 2m 4f. Patrick rides Allaho who was an impressive winner of the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. He is the highest rated in the field and has been working well at home recently. On form, he’s entitled to go close but the fact that he has never won on his first run of the season is a concern. Asterion Forlonge (Bryan Cooper) ran away with a novice handicap chase at the festival here in April and is the type who will improve as the season progresses. He could run very well here. Bryony Frost rides Franco De Port who was running a big race when he fell three out in a novice chase at the festival here. He needs to be foot perfect if he is to get involved today. Janidil (Jody McGarvey) has won over this trip but would probably be better over further. Kemboy (Danny) likes this track but would be better suited by a longer trip. Melon (Brian Hayes) needs to return to his best form if he is to trouble the principals. Tornado Flyer (Daragh O’Keeffe) goes well fresh but has a fair bit to find with Allaho on their running in the Ryanair at Cheltenham.
We have two runners making their chasing debuts in the 2m 1f beginners chase. Ferny Hollow (Patrick) has schooled well in preparation for this and his point to point experience will stand to him here. His homework has been very good and a reproduction of his bumper and hurdle form should see him go close. Gentleman de Mee (Jody McGarvey) is a difficult ride and needs to settle if he is to get into the money here.
Recite A Prayer (Danny) runs in the 3m 1f handicap chase. He won a beginners chase at Tramore last time and looks to be on a tough enough mark for his first run in a handicap. Hopefully his lack of experience won’t tell against him here.
Glengouly (Patrick) goes for the bumper. Any overnight rain would help his chance and hopefully he will at least get into the money before embarking on a hurdling career.
