Harrie (Paul) runs in the 2 mile beginners chase. He was still going well when he took a crashing fall four out in the beginners chase won by Franco De Port here last November. He needs to get his confidence back after that and hopefully he will put in a clear round of jumping today.
Gorki D’airy (Patrick) goes for the 2 mile maiden hurdle. He was second over 2m 5f on his hurdling debut at Tramore last month. With the benefit of that experience he should go close again here. Ideally he would prefer a longer trip but the heavy ground will make it a test of stamina.
Capodanno (Mark Walsh) runs in the rated novice hurdle over 2m 4f. He won his maiden over 2 miles at Clonmel a few weeks ago and the step up in trip today should suit. Even though the ground was heavy when he won we think he might be better on a drier surface. That said, we are expecting him to be very competitive here.
Fais Ton Chemin (Paul) makes his hurdling debut in the 2m 7f maiden hurdle. He was second in a bumper here last time so we know he likes the track. The extra 7 furlongs here will suit and he will handle the ground. He has schooled nicely and must have a decent chance.
Cool Jet (Jody Townend) runs in the bumper which is confined to amateurs who have not lost the right to claim 7lbs. He was fourth on his debut at Leopardstown at Christmas and he should come on a lot for that run. Jody is a big plus in race like this and we’re expecting a really good run. The Bandit is first reserve. He is a nice horse by Stowaway and is fit and ready to start off. However, this is a tough ask for his first run in testing ground.
